India Now Negotiates Trade Deals from a Position of Strength: Piyush Goyal
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New Delhi, October 17 (TheTrendingPeople.com): Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that India has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, now engaging with the world from a position of strength and confidence. Speaking at the 105th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) in New Delhi, Goyal highlighted India’s evolved approach toward Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and international economic partnerships.
India’s Strategic Shift in Global Trade Policy
Addressing business leaders and industry stakeholders, the minister said India has moved beyond the era of signing imbalanced trade deals that failed to account for its domestic strengths and industrial potential. “Gone are the days when India entered into free trade agreements without recognising its own capabilities,” Goyal asserted.
He explained that India’s present strategy focuses on negotiating with countries that are complementary, not competitive, thereby ensuring trade relationships that are balanced, beneficial, and sustainable. “We are engaging with nations that bring value to our economy while ensuring our domestic industries remain protected and competitive,” he added.
Goyal noted that this pragmatic approach not only safeguards Indian enterprises but also promotes exports, innovation, and investment, driving the nation toward becoming a global manufacturing and technology hub.
Strong Economic Fundamentals and Investor Confidence
Highlighting India’s robust macroeconomic position, the minister informed that the country’s foreign exchange reserves stand at around $700 billion, underscoring its economic stability amid global uncertainties. “Our reserves remain strong, reflecting the sound fundamentals of the Indian economy,” he said.
Goyal added that India’s resilient performance, even in the face of global headwinds, demonstrates the success of the government’s reform-oriented economic policies. “The people of India, along with our businesses and industries, now represent a new dynamism, enthusiasm, and confidence that were not witnessed a few years ago,” he remarked.
He further cited that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently revised India’s growth forecast upwards from 6.4% to 6.6%, reaffirming the country’s position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. Additionally, he pointed out that retail inflation in September 2025 stood at 1.54%, marking its lowest level in eight years.
Ease of Doing Business and Policy Reforms
The minister emphasized that India’s steady progress is the result of structural reforms and the government’s focus on improving the ease of doing business. He stated, “We have worked to make India an attractive destination for business through simplification of procedures, decriminalisation of laws, and the reduction of compliance burdens.”
Under the government’s initiatives, measures such as the PM GatiShakti plan, Make in India, and PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes have accelerated industrial growth and foreign investment inflows. Goyal highlighted that India’s emerging role in global supply chains showcases its growing competitiveness across sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy.
India’s Commitment to Sustainable Growth
Reaffirming India’s dedication to sustainable development, Goyal announced that the country has already achieved 250 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity — accounting for nearly 50% of the national grid. “By 2030, we will achieve 500 gigawatts of clean energy capacity, positioning India as one of the best destinations globally for data centres and clean energy investments,” he said.
He underlined that India’s transition toward green energy is not only an environmental imperative but also a strategic economic opportunity, attracting significant international investments in solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects.
India’s Rising Global Influence
Goyal asserted that India’s rise as a trusted global trading partner reflects its evolving role in the international community. “The world today recognises India as an important partner to work with — a country that upholds transparency, trust, and mutual respect,” he said.
He further noted that India’s diplomatic and economic stature has grown tremendously, with its passport now commanding greater respect across the globe. “The days when India used to negotiate trade agreements from a position of weakness are over,” Goyal declared, adding that India’s voice now carries significant weight in global economic forums.
Implications for India’s Trade Future
Experts suggest that India’s renewed approach to FTAs could reshape its trade architecture over the coming decade. By prioritising high-value sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and manufacturing, India aims to secure deals that align with its long-term growth and sustainability goals.
Industry leaders at the event praised the government’s proactive engagement with global economies and welcomed Goyal’s focus on strategic, rather than reactive, trade partnerships. Many noted that this shift has boosted investor sentiment and opened new avenues for Indian exporters in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
India’s transition from a cautious player to a confident negotiator marks a defining chapter in its global economic journey. As Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted, the nation’s emphasis on balanced trade agreements, sustainable development, and economic resilience has positioned it as a formidable voice in the international arena.
With strong fundamentals, visionary leadership, and unwavering confidence, India is not just participating in global trade — it is helping shape its future.