Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on 2nd September that India-EU free trade agreement (FTA) talks are at an advanced stage. The 13th round of negotiations is set for 8th September, with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič visiting New Delhi on 12th September. He added that India is also exploring a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the US. Five rounds of talks have been completed. However, the sixth was delayed after Washington imposed 50% duties on Indian imports.

Goyal noted that India has already finalised terms of reference for an FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He stressed India’s openness to fair and mutually beneficial agreements. Officials indicated that India and the EU aim to conclude their FTA by the end of this year. They may possibly start with an early harvest deal covering tariffs, intellectual property, procurement, and trade barriers.

On geopolitical ties, Goyal said relations with China are “returning to normal” as border tensions ease. This is due to talks between PM Modi and President Xi at the SCO summit. India and China recently agreed to enhance border coordination and resume direct flights after five years. This marks a step toward normalisation.

He also highlighted India’s diversified supply chains, strong Q1 GDP growth of 7.8%, and upcoming GST reforms. He urged citizens to save at least 1 kg of food annually to help reduce waste and conserve resources.

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