The difference between the FTAs and the earlier trade talks under the WTO regime is that while the multilateral talks under WTO are relatively open with texts in the public domain, the FTA talks are shrouded in secrecy.

The Free Trade Agreements that India is negotiating has serious implications for Indian agriculture, food and access to medicines and industry. If proper protection is not taken, FTAs through exceptions, it will act as the floor in all trade negotiations, effectively subverting our position in WTO.