India To Unveil AI-Focused Cybersecurity Strategy For Financial Sector By December

India is preparing to launch a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy specifically for the financial sector. Developed by an inter-ministerial group, the strategy includes over 50 recommendations with a primary focus on leveraging Artificial Intelligence to bolster defense mechanisms. The final framework is expected to be unveiled by December 2026, aiming to address emerging regulatory challenges and third-party risks.

This initiative aligns with global efforts to enhance the security of AI infrastructure and strengthen financial cyber resilience. As digital transactions become the backbone of the economy, the strategy seeks to protect consumer affairs and ensure that the financial system can withstand sophisticated cyber threats, which are increasingly utilizing AI to bypass traditional security protocols.

In a separate development affecting digital trade, India has notified the procedure for importers to claim quota-based duty concessions under the Free Trade Agreement with the UK. Effective July 15, this agreement will reduce import duties on automotive imports from approximately 110% to 10% for up to 3.78 lakh units of conventional-engine passenger cars over the next 15 years. This policy change is expected to influence the digital and physical supply chains for automotive imports, requiring importers to adapt to new compliance and reporting standards.