Story perspectives

India-EU Free Trade Agreement Negotiations Kick Off This Week

9/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

India plans to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU by late 2025, with negotiations starting this week.
EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen will discuss market access and non-tariff barriers in New Delhi.
Eleven of the 23 FTA chapters are provisionally closed, covering customs, digital trade, and competition.
Key agricultural products like dairy and sugar are excluded, while the EU seeks access for automobiles and spirits.
A strategic vision document for India-EU relations will be released on September 17, guiding future cooperation.

History

Historical Context

The EU-India Cooperation Agreement, established in 1995, marked a pivotal shift in India's economic policy following its 1991 liberalization, which ended decades of protectionism. By 2020, India exported $10.5 billion in goods to the EU, reflecting growing trade ties. Current negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement aim to enhance market access and address non-tariff barriers, potentially transforming bilateral economic relations.

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Story summary

India plans to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU by late 2025, with negotiations starting this week.
EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen will discuss market access and non-tariff barriers in New Delhi.
Eleven of the 23 FTA chapters are provisionally closed, covering customs, digital trade, and competition.
Key agricultural products like dairy and sugar are excluded, while the EU seeks access for automobiles and spirits.
A strategic vision document for India-EU relations will be released on September 17, guiding future cooperation.

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