New Delhi, July 14 -- At a time when the global economy is grappling with geopolitical tensions, protectionism and supply-chain disruptions, India has chosen deeper integration with the world through a new generation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs).

Under the leadership of commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal, India has pursued one of the most ambitious trade negotiating agendas in its history, concluding some of the fastest and most comprehensive pacts ever signed by the country, delivering significant gains for industry, exporters, micro, small and medium enterprises, and also Indian consumers.

The economic rationale is compelling. FTAs are no longer merely tariff-reduct...