India urged to reject free data flows in UK trade deal

India should be cautious In Labout agreeing to free cross-border data flows in the proposed free trade agreement with the UK, according to think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).

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GTRI argued that ownership of national data is crucial for public services, and binding commitments could restrict India's future policy space. The think tank also advised against agreeing to stop preferential treatment for domestic suppliers in the government procurement chapter of the agreement. The UK is keen to include a range of non-trade issues in the FTA, including digital trade and data governance. Negotiations between the two countries are at an advanced stage.

India's approach to trade and economic engagement has been undergoing a transformation in recent years. The proposed free trade agreement (FTA) with the UK marks a significant shift in this approach, moving India's focus from the east to the west and expanding the scope of trade agreements to encompass a broader array of non-trade matters, including environment, labor standards, gender issues, digital trade, and data governance.