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In a significant development for global trade diplomacy, senior trade officials from India and the European Union (EU) have convened in Brussels this week to resume negotiations on a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The talks, led by India’s Trade Minister and EU counterparts, mark the 13th round of discussions and are widely seen as a decisive step toward finalizing a comprehensive trade pact by the end of 2025.
The renewed momentum follows years of intermittent progress and strategic recalibration. With both sides exchanging offers on services and goods in the previous round, the current session is expected to delve deeper into market access, tariff structures, and regulatory harmonization across 23 key policy areas.
A Pact Years in the Making
Negotiations for the India-EU FTA originally began in 2007 but stalled in 2013 due to disagreements over tariff reductions, intellectual property rights, and investment protections. Talks were revived in June 2022, signaling a renewed commitment to economic cooperation between the world’s largest democratic bloc and one of its fastest-growing economies.
India’s Trade Minister emphasized the importance of the Brussels round, stating:
“We are entering a critical phase of negotiations. The goal is not just to sign a deal, but to build a framework that reflects mutual respect, shared values, and economic ambition.”
EU officials echoed the sentiment, noting that the pact could unlock substantial growth opportunities for both sides, especially in sectors like automotive, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and digital services.
What’s at Stake
The India-EU trade relationship is already robust. In FY2023–24, bilateral trade in goods reached USD 137.41 billion, with Indian exports totaling USD 75.92 billion and imports from the EU at USD 61.48 billion. The EU accounts for approximately 17% of India’s total exports, making it India’s largest trading partner for goods.
In addition, trade in services between the two regions was estimated at USD 51.45 billion in 2023. A successful FTA could significantly enhance these figures by reducing tariffs, streamlining customs procedures, and improving regulatory alignment.
Key areas under negotiation include:
Trade in Goods and Services
Investment Protection
Intellectual Property Rights
Geographical Indications
Sustainable Development
Technical Barriers to Trade
Government Procurement
Dispute Settlement Mechanisms
EU’s Demands and India’s Priorities
The EU is pushing for substantial duty cuts in sectors such as automobiles, medical devices, wine, spirits, and poultry, alongside a stronger intellectual property regime1. These demands reflect the EU’s interest in expanding its premium product footprint in India.
India, on the other hand, is focused on securing greater market access for its ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, steel, petroleum products, and electrical machinery. The country is also advocating for simplified visa regimes for skilled professionals and enhanced cooperation in digital trade.
According to L. Satya Srinivas, Special Secretary in India’s Department of Commerce:
“We’ve exchanged offers on services and non-services. Discussions are progressing constructively, and we’re optimistic about resolving key issues in the coming rounds.”
Strategic Timing and Political Will
The timing of the Brussels talks is particularly significant. With global supply chains undergoing realignment and geopolitical tensions reshaping trade alliances, both India and the EU are keen to establish a resilient and forward-looking partnership.
On February 28, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed their commitment to sealing the deal by year-end. Analysts suggest that a successful FTA could serve as a model for future agreements between the EU and other emerging economies.
However, some sticking points remain. Experts caution that finalizing the pact may require political intervention to resolve sensitive issues such as agricultural subsidies, data localization, and environmental standards.
What Comes Next?
The next round of negotiations is scheduled for early October, with working groups continuing to refine proposals in the interim. If successful, the India-EU FTA could be signed at a high-level summit later this year, potentially transforming the economic landscape for both regions.
Business leaders, trade analysts, and policymakers are watching closely, as the outcome of these talks could redefine India’s role in global trade and bolster the EU’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific.
Sources: Outlook Business, Economic Times, EU India
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