12th Round Of India-Korea CEPA Upgrade Negotiations Held In New Delhi

1. At a Glance

2. Why in the News

3. Background & Evolution

4. Core Static Facts

5. Multi-Dimensional Analysis

Economic - India runs a persistent trade deficit with Korea; upgrade aims at "balanced" partnership by easing rules of origin and NTBs restricting Indian exports (steel, pharma, agri) [S1]. - Digital trade sub-group aligns CEPA with emerging WTO/G20 e-commerce norms [S1].

Geopolitical / Strategic - Korea is a key Indo-Pacific partner; CEPA upgrade complements India's Act East Policy and supply-chain diversification (China+1) [S2]. - Supply-chain sub-group dovetails with IPEF Pillar II commitments where both are members [S1].

Scientific / Technological - "Strategic Industrial Cooperation" sub-group targets semiconductors, EV batteries, green hydrogen, shipbuilding — areas of Korean leadership [S1].

Administrative / Trade Facilitation - EODES (Dec 2023) operationalises paperless Certificate of Origin exchange — precedent for upgrade's customs chapter [S3].

6. Recent Developments (last 12-18 months)

7. Prelims Hooks

8. Mains Relevance

9. Related Topics to Study Next

10. Common Errors / Trap Areas

11. Sources

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