India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to speed up negotiations to review their trade agreement. The move aims to resolve outstanding issues and improve the effectiveness of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).

The decision was taken at the 15th AITIGA Joint Committee meeting in Jakarta, held from October 6 to 9, 2026. Negotiating groups have been asked to set clear targets and accelerate discussions on pending chapters.

Eight Sub-Committees to Speed Up Negotiations

The Joint Committee directed all eight sub-committees to work closely and deliver measurable progress. Their discussions cover customs procedures, market access, rules of origin, trade remedies, product standards and other key trade issues.

Three sub-committees also held separate meetings to advance negotiations on legal matters, market access and rules of origin.

The next Joint Committee meeting is scheduled for January 2027 in India. The meeting will review progress and guide further negotiations towards a timely conclusion.

India Seeks a More Balanced Trade Agreement

India has sought a review of AITIGA because its benefits have not matched expectations, while imports from ASEAN have increased. Although ASEAN agreed to the review in 2019, negotiations faced delays, and an earlier target of completing the process by the end of 2025 was missed.

India’s trade deficit with ASEAN has widened significantly. It rose from $4.98 billion in 2010–11 to $51.54 billion in 2025–26, according to the report.

Implications for Indian Industries

ASEAN is an important trading partner for India. Bilateral trade covers electronics, machinery, chemicals, petroleum products, agricultural commodities and other manufactured goods.

A more effective trade agreement could help address market access concerns and improve trade conditions for Indian businesses. The upcoming negotiations will be important in shaping a more balanced and effective trading relationship between India and ASEAN.