India-EU Free Trade Agreement Makes Major Breakthrough

In a significant step towards strengthening economic ties between New Delhi and Brussels, negotiations on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have crossed the halfway mark. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Wednesday (October 29, 2025) that 10 out of 20 chapters of the landmark agreement have been finalised, while several others are close to completion.

Speaking at a press briefing upon his return from a three-nation tour, Mr. Goyal outlined the progress made in recent discussions with the European Union. “We have made substantial headway in our three-day dialogue with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maros Sefcovic, and his team,” he said. “We have agreed to close 10 chapters, while another four to five are broadly finalised.”

India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Strides Towards Convergence

The India-EU Free Trade Agreement aims to create a modern, balanced, and mutually beneficial trade framework between two of the world’s largest democratic markets. According to Mr. Goyal, both negotiating teams are now moving steadily toward convergence on a range of complex issues.

“The EU team will visit New Delhi next week for the next round of talks,” he revealed. “Mr. Sefcovic himself is expected to visit India by late November or early December to take the discussions further.”

While both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had earlier set a goal to complete negotiations by the end of 2025, Mr. Goyal emphasized that quality takes precedence over speed.

“Our leaders have guided us to aim for a good deal, not just any deal,” he said. “We will conclude the FTA only when it reflects fairness and mutual benefit.”

Sensitive Issues Still on the Table

The Minister acknowledged that several key areas—such as steel, automobiles, and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)—require further deliberation due to their high sensitivities.

“These topics were discussed in great detail,” Mr. Goyal said. “India has clearly stated its position and concerns, particularly on CBAM. The conversations are moving in the right direction, with greater understanding emerging between both sides.”

A press release from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry also confirmed that issues linked to EU environmental regulations and market access remain under discussion but are progressing constructively.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Championing the Global South

During his week-long tour, Mr. Goyal represented India at multiple international platforms, including the 16th session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Geneva and the Berlin Global Dialogues.

“At UNCTAD, India reaffirmed its commitment to speaking for the Global South,” he said. “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, we are the voice of the developing world, advocating for equity, collective action, and sustainable global growth.”

In Berlin, Mr. Goyal met several European leaders and corporate executives. “It’s evident that more and more countries and businesses are eager to engage with a resurgent, strong, and aspirational India,” he asserted.

Expanding Global Trade Partnerships

India’s trade diplomacy has intensified beyond Europe as well. The Minister revealed that discussions with New Zealand are nearing completion, with India’s negotiation team scheduled to visit the country next week.

“I will be speaking with the New Zealand Trade Minister tonight via videoconference,” he noted. “Our aim is to substantially conclude negotiations for a free trade agreement soon.”

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