The 5th ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee meeting took place in Jakarta from July 29 to August 1, 2024. This meeting marked a crucial step in enhancing economic cooperation between ASEAN and India. The event was co-chaired by Shri Rajesh Agrawal from India and Ms. Mastura Ahmad Mustafa from Malaysia.
Discussions for the AITIGA review began in May 2023, with negotiations starting in February 2024. The first two negotiation rounds were held in New Delhi and Putrajaya, Malaysia. During the third round in Jakarta, eight Sub-Committees focused on areas such as Market Access and Trade Facilitation.
On the sidelines, India’s delegation held bilateral meetings with counterparts from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam. They aimed to develop a common understanding of the issues being discussed. Meetings were also held with ASEAN’s Secretary General, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, to explore enhancing economic cooperation.
The Indian delegation met with Indian businesses in Jakarta on July 31, 2024, to discuss industry experiences and expectations. With ASEAN accounting for 11% of India’s global trade, the review aims to create more business opportunities. The next AITIGA Joint Committee meeting is scheduled in India from November 19-22, 2024.
Source: India Shipping News
