04/11/25 | 9:40 am | FTA Discussions | India-EU

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India, EU step up talks on Free Trade Agreement

Negotiations between India and the European Union (EU) on the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) resumed in New Delhi on Monday, with a senior EU delegation holding discussions with Indian counterparts to resolve pending issues and move closer to a balanced trade framework.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the talks, scheduled from November 3 to 7, aim to build consensus on key areas such as trade in goods and services, rules of origin, and other technical and institutional matters. The discussions are being held with a view to creating a “modern, robust, and future-ready” FTA that aligns with the priorities of both sides.

The fresh round of engagement follows Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to Brussels on October 27–28, where he met Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security. Both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing negotiations and achieving a comprehensive agreement.

The ongoing talks gained further momentum after a virtual meeting on November 3 between Mr. Goyal, Mr. Šefčovič, and EU Agriculture and Food Commissioner Christophe Hansen.

Sabine Weyand, Director-General for Trade at the European Commission, will visit New Delhi on November 5–6 for high-level consultations with Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal to address technical and policy-level issues.

The Ministry said the visit reflects the shared determination of India and the EU to conclude a fair and equitable agreement that strengthens trade, investment, and innovation, while promoting sustainable economic growth.

 

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