India–EU FTA Talks
The European Union (EU) and India are moving closer to finalizing their Free Trade Agreement (FTA). On September 13, 2025, the 13th round of negotiations concluded in New Delhi.
Both sides emphasized that the agreement, once fair and balanced, will bring significant benefits to people and businesses across India and the EU. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed Agriculture and Food Commissioner Christophe Hansen and EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic during the talks.
Progress So Far
The 13th round of FTA discussions began on September 8 and continued until September 13, aimed at strengthening commercial ties.
Goyal stated on social media platform X:
“It was a pleasure to host the 13th round of India-EU free trade talks. We are committed to concluding a fair and mutually beneficial agreement at the earliest to create opportunities for both sides.”
He further noted that around 60% of the agreement’s chapters have been finalized, and negotiators are working to resolve the remaining issues.
EU’s Position
The EU has also voiced strong support for the deal. Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul assured India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar that Germany would push the EU Commission to finalize the pact quickly.
EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic described the discussions as “the most comprehensive and productive so far,” particularly in areas such as tariff liberalization.
Bilateral Trade Snapshot
India and the EU already enjoy strong trade relations. In 2023–24, bilateral goods trade reached $135 billion. Both sides are targeting the completion of the FTA by the end of this year, which could open fresh opportunities in sectors like automobiles and agriculture.
Expanding Trade Partnerships
India is also accelerating negotiations with other countries. A FTA with Qatar could be announced next month, while talks with Chile, Peru, and New Zealand have gained pace.
Additionally, India is working on:
India–Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement
- India–Sri Lanka Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement
- India–Peru Free Trade Agreement
- India–Chile Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement
- India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement
- Navigating Global Trade Challenges
With the US imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods, the Indian government is actively seeking new markets in Europe to cushion the impact and diversify its trade partnerships.
