ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)

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India recently hosted the 13th Joint Committee meeting of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi.

The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is a major trade deal between India and the 10 members of ASEAN.
It sets up clear rules and cuts import taxes on thousands of items to encourage regional trade and business partnerships.
Leaders signed the original agreement on August 13, 2009, and it came into action on January 1, 2010.
Officials held the 13th meeting in a hybrid format at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi.
Delegates from all 10 ASEAN countries joined, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The main aim is to rewrite trade rules so that Indian manufacturers face fair tax rates and equal business conditions.
It also aims to cut trading costs for companies by making cross-border customs processes simple and user-friendly.

The Market Access Committee (SC-NTMA) makes sure imported items get equal treatment with local products and removes unnecessary trade barriers.
The Rules of Origin Committee (SC-ROO) checks where products are truly made so that other countries cannot misuse tax discounts.
The Customs Committee (SC-CPTF) uses digital forms and fast clearances to speed up border checks and lower business costs.
The Standards Committee aligns health, safety, and quality checks (SPS and TBT) so goods meet safety rules without stopping trade.