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2w ago

India Demands Social Security Protections in Free Trade Talks

ILO recognition of 64.3% domestic coverage underpins New Delhi’s push to shield overseas workers from dual social security contributions

India pushes for social security agreements in all FTA negotiations, including deal with the US
nion Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal | X/@PiyushGoyal

Overview

  • On July 2, Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal formally requested that social security agreements be included in all ongoing FTA negotiations, covering partners such as the US, EU and UK
  • India’s domestic social security coverage has climbed from 19% in 2015 to 64.3% in 2025, bolstering its negotiating position
  • New Delhi already maintains bilateral social security agreements with over 20 countries, including Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, the Netherlands and Australia
  • The India-UK free trade agreement sets a precedent by granting Indian professionals a three-year exemption from host-country social security contributions
  • It remains unclear whether the US will agree to incorporate social security safeguards in its bilateral trade deal with India