Overview
- India has formally threatened to retaliate against the EU and UK over their Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM), which could impose 20–35% tariffs on Indian exports starting in 2027.
- Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal criticized the measures as unfair, citing India's low per capita emissions and adherence to the principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities' (CBDR).
- The EU CBAM will begin financial obligations in 2026, with full enforcement in 2027, potentially affecting $75 billion of Indian exports, including steel, aluminum, and cement.
- The recently concluded India-UK free trade agreement lacks provisions addressing the UK's planned CBAM, which could impact $775 million worth of Indian exports.
- India continues to negotiate free trade agreements with the EU and UK, aiming for completion by year-end, while reserving the right to impose countermeasures if CBAM duties harm its trade.