A picture of Basmati rice at one of the hypermarkets in Bandar Puncak Alam. Indian exporters argue that access to all Asean markets is not easy or uniform due to non-tariff barriers, especially food safety standards and certification processes affecting agriculture exports from India to Asean. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may be a no-show at the Oct 26-28 Asean summit, but progress in the review of the Asean-India Trade in Goods Agreement could lead to a much-needed boost in trade after negotiations hit a rough patch earlier in 2025.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the East Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur, while Modi is on the campaign trail in Bihar state ahead of elections.
