India and the European Union aim to conclude their long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end of 2025, with talks intensifying ahead of the next EU-India summit.
The two sides are also discussing a new strategic security and defense partnership to replace the current roadmap for 2020-2025.
A blueprint for collaboration in trade, technology, investment, green growth, security, and mobility was outlined during the meeting.
FTA talks began in 2007, relaunched in 2022, but have faced delays, particularly over tariff issues.
A key issue for the FTA is India’s tariffs on European cars and alcohol, which need to be addressed for the deal to be finalized.
The geopolitical situation, including U.S. trade policies and tensions with China, is influencing the urgency of the trade negotiations.
Despite the ambitious timeline, questions remain on whether differences, especially on tariffs, can be resolved in time.
COMMENTS