India says no to WTO's new investment agreement

Business Oct 23, 2025

India has opposed a new investment agreement at the World Trade Organization (WTO), led by China and backed by more than 120 WTO members.
The proposal wants to set up rules for how countries handle foreign investments, but only for those who sign on.
India's main worry? It thinks this deal goes beyond what the WTO is supposed to do and could mess with its tradition of making decisions by consensus.

India's concerns and priorities

India's stand highlights bigger concerns about keeping the WTO focused on trade, not adding new rules that might limit choices for developing countries.
Officials say issues like agriculture and fair dispute resolution should come first, before jumping into fresh agreements.
India isn't convinced this is the right move for now.