Unilateral, unfair trade steps dominate discussions on Day 5 at COP29

India made a forceful intervention against unilateral trade measures at the COP29 climate talks, demanding its inclusion in the conference agenda, joining similar calls from G77 and China, the BASIC group (Brazil, South Africa, India and China), and Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDC).

The country warned that imposing trade-related climate measures unfairly burdens developing and low-income countries with the costs of transitioning to low-carbon economies.

“In the end, while we as part of BASIC have been flexible on the agenda being considered under Presidential Consultations, we feel it is a matter of global concern that needs urgent consideration so that the development pathways of the developing countries are not constricted,” India’s statement concluded.

The intervention follows BASIC’s November 5 request for a separate agenda item on unilateral trade restrictions, reflecting growing concerns about measures like the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and deforestation regulations, scheduled for implementation in 2026.

“BASIC is of the view that UNFCCC Parties are obligated to send a clear and strong signal of commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation as the most effective and just manner to respond to climate change,” the group had stated, advocating for cooperative solutions over unilateral trade restrictions.