Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Commerce, has stated that the implementation of trade agreements already concluded will be a major priority for the commerce department in the year 2026. His remarks underline the government’s focus on ensuring that trade deals deliver tangible economic benefits rather than remaining limited to negotiations on paper.
Speaking on India’s trade strategy, Agrawal noted that while India has successfully concluded several trade agreements with partner countries in recent years, the next crucial step lies in their effective execution. He said that translating these agreements into increased exports, improved market access, and stronger supply chains will be central to the department’s work agenda.
Trade agreements often involve commitments on tariff reductions, regulatory cooperation, services access, and investment facilitation. According to officials, the successful implementation of these provisions requires coordination among multiple government departments, industry bodies, and international partners. The Commerce Department is expected to focus on addressing operational challenges, monitoring compliance, and resolving disputes that may arise during implementation.
India has been actively pursuing bilateral and regional trade agreements as part of its broader strategy to integrate with global markets. Agreements with major economies and trading blocs are seen as key tools to boost exports, attract investment, and support domestic manufacturing. However, experts have pointed out that the real impact of such deals depends on how effectively businesses are able to use the opportunities created.
Agrawal’s statement reflects an understanding that exporters and small businesses often face difficulties in accessing the benefits of trade agreements due to lack of awareness, complex procedures, or non-tariff barriers. To address this, the Commerce Department is expected to strengthen outreach programmes, provide clearer guidance, and work with industry associations to increase utilisation rates of trade agreements.
The focus on implementation also comes at a time when global trade faces uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and changing trade policies in major economies. In this context, ensuring stability and predictability in trade relations through effective agreement implementation is seen as crucial for India’s economic growth.
Officials have indicated that the department will also engage closely with partner countries to address issues related to customs procedures, standards, and regulatory approvals. Regular review mechanisms built into trade agreements are likely to be used to identify and resolve bottlenecks.
By prioritising trade implementation in 2026, the Commerce Department aims to maximise the economic gains from existing agreements and strengthen India’s position in global trade. The approach signals a shift from a negotiation-driven agenda to one focused on delivery, outcomes, and long-term trade competitiveness.
