India Eyes Major Trade Deal with Malaysia After EU, US Successes; PM Modi Leads Talks

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Malaysia on February 7-8 to advance India's 'Act East Policy' and discuss trade, investment, digital economy, and security.
• The visit follows recent major trade deals with the European Union (dubbed 'Mother of All Deals') and the United States, significantly reducing tariffs for Indian exports.
• A key agenda item is the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, aiming for completion by 2026.
• India seeks better market access, stricter Rules of Origin, simplified customs, and reduced trade deficit with ASEAN, particularly for agriculture, dairy, and textiles.
• Discussions will also cover Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), vocational training, defense cooperation (Big Cat Alliance), maritime security, and the Blue Economy.