India has emphasized that resolving non-tariff barriers (NTBs) faced by businesses is just as crucial as addressing import duty issues for meaningful progress in Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the European Union (EU).
During a meeting in Brussels, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic reaffirmed their commitment to concluding the India-EU FTA by the end of 2025.
India has repeatedly flagged NTBs as a challenge for domestic industries in EU markets, urging the bloc to address these concerns to boost trade. The commerce ministry stressed that regulatory frameworks must be inclusive, proportionate, and avoid restricting trade.
Both sides agreed to maintain the momentum of negotiations through monthly rounds and continued virtual engagement, with the next round scheduled from May 12-16.
The FTA aims to reflect the evolving realities of global commerce by supporting digital transition, promoting diversified and resilient supply chains, and enhancing market access.
India and the 27-nation EU bloc resumed negotiations in June 2022, after an eight-year gap following stalled talks in 2013 due to differences over market access. The agreement is expected to be concluded in two phases.
