The North News
New Delhi, October 29
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal visited Brussels from 26 to 28 October for a series of high-level discussions with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič and his team on outstanding issues in the ongoing India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to conclude the FTA by the end of 2025, in line with the direction set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during the College of Commissioners’ visit to New Delhi in February this year.
Talks focused on achieving a “mutually beneficial, balanced, and equitable” trade pact that reflects the depth of political trust and strategic partnership between India and the European Union, while respecting each side’s priorities and sensitivities.
Discussions centred on tariff and non-tariff barriers, with India underlining the need for a transparent and predictable regulatory framework to boost trade in the years ahead. Both sides explored “possible landing zones” on key issues and engaged extensively on India’s concerns over new EU regulations and non-tariff measures. Goyal highlighted the need for preferential treatment for India’s labour-intensive sectors, while both delegations agreed to work towards finalising non-sensitive industrial tariff lines. However, matters related to steel, automotive, and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) remain under further review due to their complex nature.
The minister said India looks forward to advancing “balanced, equitable and meaningful trade” through closer cooperation and innovation. An EU technical delegation, led by the Director General for Trade, is expected to visit India next week to build on the progress made in Brussels and move closer to a constructive conclusion.
