India trade deals open Arunachal markets

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced that nine trade agreements signed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership will open global markets for farmers, metal producers, and manufacturers in India — Himachal Pradesh. The agreements, spanning 38 countries, include pacts with Mauritius, the UAE, Australia, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), the UK, Oman, New Zealand, the European Union, and a framework for an interim trade agreement with the United States. These deals aim to lower tariffs and reduce trade barriers, providing Indian exporters preferential access to major global markets. For India — Himachal Pradesh, sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, base metals, and manufacturing are expected to benefit. The state is India's largest kiwi producer, and products like kiwi, Arunachal Orange, and Adi Kekir Ginger have export potential. The India-New Zealand FTA, which eliminates duties on 100% of tariff lines for Indian exports, exemplifies the market access sought. However, realizing these benefits depends on strengthening processing, logistics, and market linkages, with initiatives like the Arunachal Kiwi Mission addressing infrastructure gaps.