ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA): Objectives and Review

Introduction

The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is a trade agreement between India and the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It aims to facilitate trade in goods through tariff concessions and agreed trade rules.

The agreement was signed in 2009 and came into effect in 2010.

ASEAN member countries

ASEAN comprises 11 member countries as of 2026:

  • Brunei Darussalam

  • Cambodia

  • Indonesia

  • Laos

  • Malaysia

  • Myanmar

  • Philippines

  • Singapore

  • Thailand

  • Vietnam

  • Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste became ASEAN's 11th member in 2025.

Objectives of AITIGA

  • Reduce or eliminate tariffs on specified goods.

  • Expand trade between India and Southeast Asia.

  • Improve market access for exporters.

  • Strengthen economic integration.

  • Establish rules governing preferential trade.

Rules of origin

Rules of origin determine whether a product qualifies for preferential tariff treatment under a trade agreement. These rules help prevent goods from third countries from receiving concessions simply by passing through a member country.

Why is the agreement being reviewed?

India has sought to address concerns regarding trade imbalances, market access, rules of origin, and non-tariff barriers. A review is intended to make the agreement more balanced and effective.

In July 2026, India hosted the 13th AITIGA Joint Committee meeting to advance negotiations on outstanding review chapters.

UPSC Prelims Key Pointers

  • AITIGA concerns trade in goods, not a comprehensive agreement covering every aspect of services and investment.

  • ASEAN is a regional organisation in Southeast Asia.

  • India is not an ASEAN member.

  • AITIGA was signed in 2009 and entered into force in 2010.

  • Rules of origin are important for determining eligibility for tariff preferences.

  • The agreement is distinct from the ASEAN-India Trade in Services Agreement.

  • The AITIGA review is relevant to India's Act East Policy and its economic engagement with Southeast Asia.