Trade Negotiations

The Centre for WTO Studies (CWS), in partnership with the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), conducted a comprehensive Course on Trade Negotiations from 16th to 19th March 2024 at Nalanda Hall, IIFT, New Delhi. Designed to enhance the understanding and practical skills of participants in international trade negotiations, the course brought together senior government officials, trade experts, legal practitioners, and academics.
The program opened with a keynote inaugural session featuring Dr. Pritam Banerjee, Head of CWS, and senior officials from the Department of Commerce. Over three days, participants engaged in a series of expert-led sessions covering a wide spectrum of topics including economic context analysis, FTA negotiation strategies, services trade, stakeholder management, and legal frameworks in FTAs.
Highlights included simulation exercises, case-based learning, and sessions led by distinguished speakers such as Ambassador Jayant Dasgupta, Shri V. Lakshmikumaran, Dr. Pralok Gupta, Dr. James Nedumpara, and Dr. Rohit Mehtani. The course also explored the evolving landscape of economic diplomacy and the role of international political economy in shaping trade negotiations.
The program concluded with a valedictory session and certificate distribution, reinforcing CWS’s commitment to capacity building in trade policy and negotiations. The course served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and skill development, equipping participants with the tools to navigate complex trade negotiations effectively.