India and GCC sign ToR for FTA
Asked by UPSCPrelims 20161 PYQ
UPSC has already asked about this. Read the story with these questions in mind.
What happened
- India and the Gulf Cooperation Council signed the Terms of Reference for an FTA on 5 February 2026 in New Delhi [PIB].
- Trade with the GCC was USD 178.56 billion in FY 2024-25 (exports USD 56.87 bn, imports USD 121.68 bn), 15.42% of India’s total trade [PIB].
Background
- The GCC has six members: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain. India already has CEPAs with the UAE and Oman.
Why it matters
- The Gulf supplies energy, sends remittances and hosts about 90 lakh Indians.
How to use this in Mains
- As per PIB (2026-02-05): india and the Gulf Cooperation Council signed the Terms of Reference for an FTA on 5 February 2026 in New Delhi.
- The Gulf supplies energy, sends remittances and hosts about 90 lakh Indians.
Quotable data pointTrade with the GCC was USD 178.56 billion in FY 2024-25 (exports USD 56.87 bn, imports USD 121.68 bn), 15.42% of India's total trade.
PIB: Commerce: India–GCC FTA ToR, 5 Feb 2026
Exam angle
UPSC
Prelims: GCC members.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Practice · UPSC
India–GCC trade FY25
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
GCC share of India's trade
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Not a GCC member
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
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Official source: PIB: Commerce: India–GCC FTA ToR, 5 Feb 2026
facts from cited sources only; faculty review pending