India’s 8th Trade Policy Review at the WTO: A Strategic Assessment

Beyond trade figures, the review will focus on India’s advancements in digital and tax infrastructure. The integration of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework and the rapid expansion of the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)—including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and e-governance platforms—have significantly reduced transaction costs and improved the ease of doing business. These reforms have not only streamlined domestic trade but have also enhanced India’s integration into global value chains. For India, the TPR is more than a routine audit; it is a platform to showcase its commitment to a rules-based multilateral trading system. It provides an opportunity to address concerns raised by trading partners regarding domestic regulations while simultaneously advocating for the interests of the Global South. As India aims to become a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, the feedback received during this review will be instrumental in refining trade policies to ensure they remain competitive, inclusive, and aligned with international standards. UPSC Relevance: This topic is highly relevant for GS Paper II (International Institutions) and GS Paper III (Indian Economy). Aspirants should use this to discuss India’s engagement with the WTO, the impact of trade policies on economic growth, and how digital infrastructure acts as a catalyst for export competitiveness in a globalized economy.