India has successfully concluded negotiations to reach a free trade agreement (FTA) with the 10-member Asean. The FTA will pave the way for duty-free imports of a range of products such as textiles, electronics goods and chemicals. In the process, it will add $12 billion by 2010 to the trade among participating nations. Incidentally, the volume of trade between China and Asean soared to over $171 billion last year due to such a trade deal. On the whole, the Indo-Asean FTA is complete and comprehensive. It will surely contribute to the economic success of both sides.
?P Senthil Saravana Durai Hyderabad
SEZs? progress
That newly established special economic zones are doing well (?In the zone?, Aug 29) is an encouraging sign. It should help calm the nerves of those who are dead set against SEZs.
?VN Sinha