Government Conducting Extensive FTA Consultations

Government Conducting Extensive FTA Consultations to Protect Industry Interests

News: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the government conducts extensive stakeholder consultations before finalizing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), ensuring domestic industry interests are protected.

He emphasized that FTAs are negotiated with countries that complement India’s economy, aiming for mutual benefit.

Future FTAs will prioritize national and public interests. Speaking at the third anniversary of Vanijya Bhawan, Goyal highlighted its role in integrated governance.

He praised the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) for democratizing public procurement and enabling entrepreneurs from remote areas to participate.

Goyal also noted how e-commerce is helping in price discovery and expanding supply chains. He urged ministry staff to take collective responsibility for cleanliness and proposed a 50% reduction in housekeeping staff by next year.