Archive · 21 Aug 2025
India Mulls RCEP Return Amidst Shifting Trade Dynamics
India might join a big trade group called RCEP again.
This is because of trade disagreements with the US and better relations with China.
RCEP is a group of Asian countries that trade with each other.
India left this group a few years ago because they worried about unfair trade.
Now, they are thinking about it again.
China has also made it easier for India to trade with them.
Some experts believe US tariffs are making these countries want to work together more through RCEP.
India is considering rejoining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade bloc.
Escalating trade tensions with the US and improved relations with China are key factors.
China lifted export curbs on certain items to India following a meeting of foreign ministers.
India left RCEP in 2019 due to concerns about market access and trade deficits.
Experts say US tariffs are pushing countries to reconsider trade options within RCEP.
- Who
- India, China, and other RCEP member nations
- What
- India is considering rejoining the RCEP trade bloc.
- When
- Internal discussions have begun in the Indian government.
- Where
- India
- Why
- Escalating trade tensions with the US and a thaw in India-China relations are driving the reconsideration.
Pro-RCEP
Against RCEP
Market Access
Pro-RCEP
Improved market access for Indian products.
Against RCEP
Concerns about unfair trade practices from China.
Economic Impact
Pro-RCEP
Diversification of export markets.
Against RCEP
Risk to domestic manufacturing and small businesses.
- RCEP Membership
- Considering rejoining
- RCEP Members
- 15 countries including ASEAN nations, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand
- India left RCEP in
- November 2019
- US Tariffs on India
- Up to 50%
- India's Trade Deficit with China (FY25)
- $99.2 billion