India is set to undergo its eighth Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the World Trade Organization (WTO) on July 21 and 23, 2026, a key multilateral exercise that evaluates the country’s trade policies and economic developments. The Indian delegation for the review is being led by Commerce Secretary Shri Rajesh Agarwal.
The review comes at a time when India has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies, backed by resilient trade performance, digital transformation, tax reforms and expanding global trade partnerships.
WTO Review to Assess India’s Trade Policies
The Trade Policy Review is a transparency mechanism under the WTO designed to enhance understanding of a member country’s trade and investment policies. It is conducted by the Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB), which includes all WTO members.
Each review is based on two principal documents—a Government Report prepared by the member under review and an independent assessment by the WTO Secretariat. India, owing to its share in global trade, undergoes this review once every five years.
The eighth review covers the period from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2025. Preparations for the exercise began in June 2025, with the Department of Commerce coordinating inputs from more than 100 ministries, departments and government organisations over a period of 14 months.
Strong Economic Recovery in Focus
India’s performance during the review period reflects a strong recovery from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global economic uncertainties.
According to the Government Report, the Indian economy rebounded rapidly after the pandemic-induced slowdown and has continued to register robust growth, reinforcing its position as the fastest-growing among major global economies.
The review is expected to highlight the country’s macroeconomic stability, policy reforms and efforts to strengthen competitiveness while maintaining inclusive growth.
Record Export Performance
India’s external trade performance is another major highlight of the review.
Total merchandise and services exports reached a record US$863.1 billion in 2025–26, compared with US$676.5 billion in 2021–22, representing a growth of 6.3 per cent during the review period despite challenging global trade conditions.
The report attributes this resilience to diversified export markets, policy support, improved trade facilitation and India’s expanding participation in global value chains.
Digital and Tax Reforms Receive Attention
Both the Government Report and the WTO Secretariat’s assessment recognise several policy initiatives undertaken during the review period.
Among the major reforms highlighted are the rationalisation and simplification of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework, which has improved tax administration and ease of doing business.
India’s digital transformation has also received significant attention. Initiatives such as the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), along with the increasing use of digital platforms for customs procedures and trade facilitation, are expected to be presented as examples of technology-driven governance.
The reports also acknowledge India’s active engagement in negotiating and implementing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), aimed at strengthening economic integration with global partners.
Wide Interest from WTO Members
India’s growing economic influence is reflected in the level of engagement from WTO members.
As of July 20, 2026, member countries had submitted more than 900 questions seeking clarifications on various aspects of India’s trade and economic policies. The questions span subjects including digitalisation, trade reforms, support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women’s economic participation, the Viksit Bharat vision and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
More than 40 WTO members are expected to make formal statements during the review sessions.
The Indian delegation will respond to members’ queries, explain the rationale behind key policy measures and present India’s long-term vision for sustainable, inclusive and rules-based trade.
Transparency and Global Confidence
The Trade Policy Review is not a dispute settlement exercise but a peer-review mechanism intended to improve transparency, predictability and mutual understanding among WTO members.
For India, the eighth review provides an opportunity to showcase the progress achieved through structural reforms, digital innovation and trade expansion over the past five years. It also allows the country to communicate its policy priorities, strengthen confidence among trading partners and reinforce its commitment to an open, transparent and resilient global trading system.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
