The recent finalization of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), described as 'the mother of all deals' by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, marks a significant shift in global trade dynamics. According to The Frontier Post, this agreement, which had been under negotiation for two decades, was accelerated due to the 'hostile posture of the US' towards both India and the EU. The US had imposed tariffs on EU products such as cars and pharmaceuticals, prompting the EU to seek alternative trade partners. The Tribune Latest highlights that the US's decision to reduce tariffs on Indian goods further complicates the situation for Pakistan, whose cotton industry is already struggling. Ihsanul Haq from the Cotton Ginners Forum warned of a 'sharp decline in exports' if immediate measures are not taken to support the sector. As of January 31, 2026, cotton arrivals at ginning factories in Pakistan increased by 0.62% to 5.545 million bales, yet the competitive pressure remains high.