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Insights

Practical guides and market notes on buying from India, from our team on the ground. Subscribe to receive The SRV Trade Letter each month.

Latest insights

Trade agreements, tariffs, commodity policy and compliance, written by our editorial desk.

Trade agreements

India–New Zealand free trade agreement takes effect on 20 October

From 20 October 2026, every Indian product enters New Zealand duty free. What the agreement covers and how NZ importers claim the lower rate.

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Trade agreements

Zero tariffs on every Indian product: Australia's trade deal with India reaches its final stage

Since 1 January 2026, all Indian goods can enter Australia duty free under ECTA. What that means for Australian importers, and where the CECA talks stand.

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Trade agreements

The India–UK trade agreement is in force: what changes for UK buyers

Since 15 July 2026, almost all Indian goods enter the UK duty free under the India–UK CETA. What changes for textiles, leather, food and more.

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Trade agreements

The EU–India trade deal is done. Here is what to prepare before it takes effect

The EU and India concluded their free trade agreement in January 2026. It is not yet in force. What it will change for EU buyers and how to prepare now.

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Commodities

India reopens wheat exports after four years

In August 2026 India moved wheat and wheat flour back to free export after a ban that began in May 2022. Who is likely to buy, and the risks to plan for.

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Commodities

India's rice is back on world markets: what changed and what to watch

India shipped 21.55 million tonnes of rice in 2025 after lifting its export curbs, and prices fell to near decade lows. What it means for buyers in 2026.

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Commodities

Indian sugar exports are shut. What buyers should plan for in 2026–27

India prohibited sugar exports in May 2026 and has not announced an export policy for the 2026–27 season. What happened and how buyers should plan.

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Shipping

Suez is reopening for some India services. Should you change your shipping plans?

Some container services from India are returning to the Suez Canal. What has changed for transit times and freight rates, and what buyers should ask their forwarder.

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Trade agreements

Oman joins the UAE: India's Gulf trade agreements and what they mean for buyers

India's trade agreement with Oman took effect on 1 June 2026, alongside the UAE agreement in force since 2022. What it covers for food and textile buyers in the Gulf.

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Trade agreements

One year of India's trade agreement with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein

The India–EFTA TEPA turned one on 1 October 2026. What it offers buyers in Switzerland and Norway, and its unusual investment commitment.

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Compliance

EU deforestation rules apply from 30 December 2026: what Indian suppliers and EU buyers need

The EUDR applies to large and medium companies from 30 December 2026. What it means for coffee, rubber, wood products and other goods sourced from India.

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Compliance

The EU carbon border charge is live: what it means for Indian steel and aluminium

CBAM's definitive phase began on 1 January 2026. How it works, why Indian steel and aluminium are exposed, and what EU buyers should ask suppliers for.

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Critical minerals

Rare earths from India: what is realistic for buyers in 2026

India has rare earth deposits and a new magnet programme, but supply is state controlled and mostly kept for domestic use. What buyers can realistically expect.

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Quality

Spice safety in 2026: residues, ethylene oxide and how buyers protect themselves

Recalls over ethylene oxide and rejections over pesticide residues have made spice testing a buyer's first priority. What happened and the checks that prevent it.

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Buyer guide

Importing spices from India: a buyer's checklist

Grades, treatment, documents and duty. What to settle before you place your first spice order.

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