The UK's recent decision to cut steel import quotas by 60% has complicated the timeline for the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which was signed in July 2022. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal indicated that while both countries are close to operationalizing the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA), the new steel measures were not included in the initial negotiations. The UK plans to impose a 50% duty on steel imports exceeding the new quota starting in July, despite having committed to zero tariffs on steel under the CETA. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had previously expressed optimism that the FTA would be effective by May 2023. Additionally, India is engaged in trade negotiations with the US, which is currently investigating India's trade practices under Section 301 of the US Trade Act 1974, citing concerns over overcapacity and forced labor. India has denied these allegations and is actively participating in discussions. Furthermore, India is preparing for negotiations with South Korea to review their trade deal, aiming to double bilateral trade by 2030.