In this round, the negotiators are focusing on core chapters such as trade in goods, trade in services, and rules of origin, in addition to technical and institutional matters. Photo courtesy: PickPic
New Delhi: A senior delegation of negotiators from the European Union (EU) is in New Delhi from November 3 to 7 for a fresh round of discussions with its Indian counterparts on the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The latest engagement aims to resolve key outstanding issues and move the long-awaited pact closer to a balanced and mutually-beneficial conclusion that advances the economic interests of both sides.
The visit comes soon after Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal travelled to Brussels this year on October 27-28, where he held extensive discussions with Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security. Those consultations were described as forward-looking and reaffirmed the shared resolve of India and the EU to accelerate negotiations toward a comprehensive, modern, and future-ready FTA.
During the New Delhi round, negotiators are focusing on core chapters such as trade in goods, trade in services, and rules of origin, in addition to technical and institutional matters. Both sides are seeking to narrow differences in sensitive areas, including tariff reduction timelines, regulatory standards, and market access in key sectors such as automobiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and digital services. The talks are guided by the common goal of achieving an equitable framework that reflects the economic strengths, priorities, and developmental considerations of both partners.
The negotiations have gained further momentum following a virtual meeting on November 3 between Goyal and Šefčovič, along with the EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen. The high-level exchange helped set the tone for the week’s discussions by outlining areas where greater convergence could be achieved and by reaffirming political commitment at the ministerial level.
Adding to the significance of the week’s events, Sabine Weyand, Director-General for Trade at the European Commission, is scheduled to be in New Delhi on November 5-6 for bilateral talks with Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal. Their discussions are expected to cover critical technical and policy issues, including sustainable trade practices, investment facilitation, and cooperation in emerging sectors such as clean technology and digital trade governance.
Officials familiar with the negotiations said both sides are working in a “constructive and forward-leaning spirit” to bring the agreement closer to completion.
The EU remains one of India’s largest trading partners, accounting for over 11% of India’s total merchandise trade, while India is among the EU’s top ten global trading partners. A successful FTA is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade, enhance market access for businesses, and create new opportunities in innovation, green transition, and services.
The EU delegation’s visit underscores the joint determination of India and the European Union to conclude a fair and balanced trade agreement that strengthens economic ties and supports long-term sustainable growth. Both partners have expressed optimism that the progress achieved during this round will lay the groundwork for finalizing the agreement in the near future, cementing a stronger and more resilient India-EU partnership in the global economic landscape.