Digital Trade Reshapes Global Rules, Commerce Secretary Calls For Sharper Legal Thinking

New Delhi witnessed Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal advocating for heightened legal considerations amidst the shift in global trade norms due to sustainability-linked measures and burgeoning digital trade. Addressing the Centre for Trade and Investment Law’s (CTIL) ninth-anniversary event, Agrawal underscored the significance of robust institutions in guiding India through an ever-evolving global trade agenda.

Agrawal commended CTIL for gaining the trust of the government, businesses, and the trade law fraternity. He emphasized CTIL's role in providing legal expertise to the Department of Commerce, spanning various aspects such as free trade agreement negotiations, dispute settlement, and preservation of institutional knowledge. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry disclosed that CTIL has delivered over 4,000 legal opinions and engaged in negotiations related to nearly ten free trade agreements.

Justice P. S. Narasimha, a Supreme Court Judge, echoed Agrawal's sentiments, stressing the pivotal need for India's institutions to shape international economic law, coupled with keeping abreast of evolving developments. Narasimha pointed out that contemporary international investment law has transitioned from merely protecting foreign investments to acknowledging the regulatory autonomy of governments.

Such discourse around institutional structures, legitimacy, and the intricate balance between investment rights and state’s regulatory powers is gaining traction, he elaborated. An 8th WTO Trade Policy Review is slated for July 2026, with the Commerce Infra Centre (CBIC) showcasing advances in digital customs reforms and trade facilitation progress.

Additional Secretary Yashvir Singh acknowledged CTIL’s instrumental role in significant trade engagements, including free trade agreements, participation in G20 and BRICS discussions, and support for WTO negotiations, submissions, notifications, and dispute settlement. Beyond negotiations, Singh highlighted the centre's contribution to economic diplomacy and its role in fostering expertise in international economic law.

The anniversary celebrations underscored CTIL’s advisory function as India navigates shifting trade priorities and fortifies its legal capabilities in the realm of international engagements.