Is IIFT Enhancing International Trade Negotiations Skills for Government Officials?
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Synopsis
The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) has launched an International Trade Negotiations Programme aimed at enhancing the negotiation skills of government officials. This initiative is set to bolster India's global trade engagement and equip participants with valuable tools for effective negotiation.
Key Takeaways
- Programme aims to enhance negotiation skills.
- Facilitated by IIFT's Centre for International Negotiations.
- Focus on India's role in global trade.
- Insights from industry experts.
- Practical tools for effective negotiation.
New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) To enhance the negotiation capabilities of government officials, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) inaugurated the International Trade Negotiations Programme for the Department of Commerce officials on Monday.
Hosted by IIFT’s Centre for International Negotiations, this programme aims to fortify the negotiation proficiency of government officials and elevate India’s presence in global trade.
During his address, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal stated, “This programme encapsulates all essential topics presented by industry experts. IIFT has consistently played a pivotal role in international trade and negotiations, and we wish all participants the best in this exceptional learning journey.”
Reflecting on the institute’s accomplishments, IIFT Vice Chancellor Rakesh Mohan Joshi remarked, “IIFT is currently ranked highly on LinkedIn and NIRF, with placements reaching ₹1.23 crore. We have recently established campuses in Kakinada and GIFT City. Our long-anticipated Dubai campus has received necessary approvals from multiple ministries and will commence shortly.”
“We are also crafting 30 case studies on bilateral trade and FTAs. Two significant FTAs — the India–UK FTA and CETA — illustrate how India can adeptly manage intricate trade challenges even during turbulent times,” he added.
The India-UK FTA was formalized amid global trade uncertainties stemming from tariff disputes initiated by US President Donald Trump. This agreement grants 99% of Indian exports duty-free access to the UK market, offering substantial tariff reductions for various Indian sectors including textiles and processed food.
Furthermore, it enhances market access for Indian service professionals such as IT specialists, chefs, yoga instructors, musicians, and intra-corporate transferees, along with a finalized Social Security Agreement to eliminate dual contributions for Indian professionals in the UK.
Programme Director Rohit Mehtani stated, “This initiative reflects IIFT’s ongoing dedication to enhancing the skills of government officials in the complex realm of international trade negotiations. Participants will acquire practical insights and tools for more effective negotiations in both multilateral and bilateral settings,” he remarked.
This initiative underscores IIFT’s sustained position as India’s leading institution for trade-related education, research, and policy support.
Point of View
The launch of IIFT's International Trade Negotiations Programme marks a significant step towards strengthening the capabilities of its government officials. This initiative not only reflects IIFT's commitment to excellence in trade education but also emphasizes the importance of adept negotiation skills in today's complex trade environment.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the International Trade Negotiations Programme?
The programme aims to enhance the negotiation skills of government officials, improving India's global trade engagement.
Who inaugurated the programme?
The programme was inaugurated by the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) for officials of the Department of Commerce.
What notable FTAs are being studied in the programme?
The programme includes studies on the India-UK FTA and CETA, highlighting India's strategies in complex trade scenarios.
How does the India-UK FTA benefit Indian exports?
The FTA provides 99% of Indian exports with duty-free access to the UK market and significant tariff reductions for various sectors.
What skills will participants gain from this programme?
Participants will acquire practical insights and tools to negotiate effectively in both multilateral and bilateral forums.
