India and EU reaffirm commitment to finalize FTA by 2025, enhancing global trade, resilient supply chains, and investment flows.
India and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their shared commitment to concluding the ambitious India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025, following a high-level dialogue between Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry of India, and Mr. Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security. This engagement marks a significant step towards strengthening the strategic trade ties between the two partners.
The discussions were aimed at addressing global trade challenges and ensuring a commercially meaningful and mutually beneficial trade partnership. Both sides reiterated the importance of maintaining momentum in the negotiations, which have seen progress across multiple tracks. The next round of negotiations is scheduled to take place in New Delhi from 12-16 May 2025.
The focus of the India-EU FTA is not only on tariff discussions but also on addressing non-tariff barriers (NTBs), which India emphasized as essential for meaningful progress. Additionally, regulatory frameworks will be crafted to be inclusive, proportionate, and designed to avoid restricting trade. The agreement is expected to reflect the evolving realities of global commerce, supporting India’s digital transition and promoting diversified, resilient supply chains.
Once concluded, the FTA will serve as a transformative pillar in the broader India-EU strategic partnership. It aims to enhance market access, foster innovation, support regulatory cooperation, and improve competitiveness on both sides. Moreover, investment flows and people-to-people mobility will play crucial roles in sustaining economic vitality, driving forward the future-ready trade framework.
India’s broader vision of shaping a more globally integrated economy is also reflected in the FTA, as the agreement seeks to promote diversified production networks and uphold fair trade principles. By concluding this agreement, India hopes to strengthen its position in global trade while aligning with its 2047 development goals.
The India-EU FTA comes at a critical time as India continues to broaden its footprint in global trade, signing multiple free trade agreements. This dialogue demonstrates India’s ambition to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of international trade while supporting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
