EU Moves India Trade Deal Closer to Final Approval
The European Commission has formally submitted the India-EU Free Trade Agreement for approval by the Council of the European Union, moving the landmark pact closer to signature and eventual implementation after negotiations concluded earlier this year.
India-EU FTA Moves to Approval Stage
The Commission has asked EU member states to authorise the signature and conclusion of the agreement, which it describes as the largest trade deal ever negotiated by either India or the European Union.
After Council approval and signature, the agreement will require the consent of the European Parliament before it can enter into force. India is simultaneously completing its own domestic procedures.
India and the EU concluded FTA negotiations on January 27, 2026, after talks originally launched in 2007 were revived in 2022.
Deal Covers Over 96% of EU Exports to India
Under the agreement, India will eliminate or reduce tariffs covering about 96.6% of EU goods exports by value.
The European Commission estimates that tariff reductions could save European exporters approximately €4 billion annually and potentially double EU goods exports to India by 2032.
India will benefit from improved access for sectors including textiles, footwear, pharmaceuticals, fisheries and chemicals, while European businesses are expected to gain substantially in automobiles, machinery, chemicals, medical devices and agri-food products.
India-EU Trade Deal Deepens Economic Partnership
The EU and India already conduct more than €180 billion in annual goods and services trade, making the agreement economically significant for both markets.
Beyond tariffs, the FTA seeks to simplify customs procedures, reduce regulatory barriers and create more predictable rules for businesses and investors.
The deal also reflects efforts by India and Europe to diversify supply chains and strengthen economic partnerships amid growing uncertainty in global trade.
