Jakarta Hosts 5th AITIGA Joint Committee Meeting

The 5th AITIGA Joint Committee meeting, marking a significant milestone in ASEAN-India economic cooperation, took place in Jakarta from July 29 to August 1, 2024. The discussions aimed at reviewing and enhancing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) were co-chaired by Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, India, and Ms. Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, Deputy Secretary General (Trade), Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry, Malaysia. Delegates from all 10 ASEAN countries and India participated in the meeting.

Key Developments

Previous Discussions and Negotiations

The review process for AITIGA began in May 2023, with Terms of Reference and Negotiating Structure finalized before negotiations commenced in February 2024. The first two rounds of negotiations were held in New Delhi and Putrajaya, Malaysia, respectively. The 3rd round in Jakarta saw substantive discussions across all 8 Sub-Committees.

Sub-Committee Meetings

The Sub-Committees focused on National Treatment and Market Access, Rules of Origin, Standards and Technical Regulations, Sanitary and Phytosanitary issues, Legal and Institutional Issues, Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation, Trade Remedies, and Economic and Technical Cooperation.

Bilateral and High-Level Meetings

During the meeting, the Indian delegation held bilateral discussions with Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam to align on key issues. Meetings were also held with ASEAN Secretary General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn and ASEAN Deputy Secretary General Mr. Satvinder Singh to explore further economic cooperation opportunities.

Industry Interaction

On July 31, 2024, the Indian delegation engaged with Indian businesses in Jakarta during a dinner hosted by the Embassy of India, gathering insights and expectations regarding the AITIGA review.

Future Outlook

ASEAN remains a crucial trade partner for India, with a trade share of about 11% in India’s global trade. The review of AITIGA, which was initially signed in 2009, aims to bolster trade opportunities and enhance economic engagement. The next AITIGA Joint Committee meeting is scheduled to be held in India from November 19-22, 2024.