New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday underlined the significance of swiftly concluding the long-anticipated India-European Union (EU) trade deal, emphasizing that a timely agreement could have far-reaching implications for global economic stability and the strengthening of democratic forces worldwide.

Speaking after a meeting with a high-level EU panel visiting India, Jaishankar noted that both sides were exploring ways to maximize convergences and deepen cooperation in multiple sectors. He stated, “The early conclusion of the India-EU FTA can make a big difference to these objectives,” highlighting the strategic and economic importance of the free trade agreement (FTA).

Context and Deadline

The remarks come as India and the EU move closer to a December 2025 deadline, set by the leadership of both sides, to finalize the trade deal. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed their commitment to this timeline during Von der Leyen’s visit to India in February, which also included the EU College of Commissioners.

The India-EU FTA, once concluded, is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade between the two partners. Currently, the EU stands as India’s largest trading partner, with two-way trade in goods amounting to $135 billion in 2023-24. By streamlining market access, reducing tariffs, and facilitating trade across key sectors, the FTA aims to create a more predictable and stable environment for businesses on both sides.

Recent Negotiations and Progress

The 14th round of India-EU FTA negotiations concluded in Brussels on October 10, 2025. Discussions focused on firming up an economically meaningful market access package. According to the EU, significant progress has been made in chapters covering:

• Customs and trade facilitation
• Dispute settlement mechanisms
• Digital trade
• Sustainable food systems
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Competition and subsidies
• Capital movements

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also visited Brussels earlier this week to engage with EU officials, reinforcing India’s commitment to concluding the FTA. EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin described the visit as a step toward “substantial progress” in the negotiations and affirmed that both sides remain in continuous dialogue.

Strategic Significance

Jaishankar stressed that the trade deal carries not just economic but also strategic significance. He indicated that closer India-EU trade ties could stabilize the global economy and strengthen democratic forces, particularly at a time when global trade faces uncertainties.

The minister’s statement also coincides with ongoing India-US trade negotiations, which have been under scrutiny due to high tariffs levied by the previous US administration. By finalizing the FTA with the EU, India hopes to diversify its trade partnerships, reduce dependency on individual markets, and create a more resilient trade framework.

Engagement with Stakeholders

During the EU delegation’s visit, members of the European Parliament are set to engage with a variety of Indian stakeholders, including industry representatives and trade bodies. These interactions aim to assess both opportunities and challenges posed by the trade negotiations and ensure that the final agreement addresses the interests of businesses and consumers on both sides.

Looking Ahead

The India-EU FTA, once concluded, is expected to open up new avenues for trade in goods and services, facilitate investment, and improve cooperation in sectors like technology, green energy, and sustainable development. With only two months left until the December deadline, both sides are reportedly working intensively to resolve pending issues and formalize the agreement.

Jaishankar’s remarks underscore the urgency of the negotiations and the broader vision behind the FTA—strengthening multilateral trade frameworks, ensuring economic stability, and enhancing strategic partnerships between like-minded democratic nations.

As the deadline approaches, India and the EU will likely continue high-level consultations, with trade ministers, senior officials, and parliamentary representatives closely monitoring progress. The successful conclusion of the FTA could pave the way for enhanced market access, greater investment flows, and deeper cooperation across multiple sectors, reinforcing India’s position in the global trade landscape.