Is India Close to Finalizing Trade Pacts with US and EU?
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Synopsis
India is making significant strides in finalizing trade agreements with both the US and EU. The ongoing negotiations not only promise mutual benefits but also highlight India's growing influence in global trade dynamics. Key figures like Piyush Goyal and Randhir Jaiswal emphasize the importance of these agreements in bolstering economic ties.
Key Takeaways
- India is actively negotiating trade agreements with the US and EU.
- Key Indian officials are optimistic about finalizing these agreements.
- India has already established free trade agreements with several countries.
- Ongoing negotiations with the EU are progressing well.
- The upcoming India-EU Summit will focus on trade discussions.
New Delhi, Dec 26 (NationPress) India and the United States are actively working towards finalizing a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) that is beneficial for both countries, as stated by the government on Friday.
During a weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that discussions regarding the trade deal between New Delhi and Washington are ongoing. He emphasized, "Both nations — the United States and India — continue to remain engaged with the goal of reaching a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement."
This week, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal mentioned that India and the US are in advanced stages of negotiating the bilateral trade agreement.
Goyal informed the media that India has successfully established free trade agreements with three members of the Five Eyes (FVEY) intelligence alliance — Australia, the UK, and New Zealand. The US and Canada are the other two members of this group.
Goyal's positive outlook comes in light of recent discussions held by Indian officials with a US delegation led by Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer in Delhi earlier this month. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal also mentioned that India is "very close" to finalizing a preliminary framework deal with the US aimed at reducing reciprocal tariffs.
Meanwhile, Jaiswal also shared that the negotiations for the India–EU FTA are making good progress.
"The last round — the 14th round of negotiations — took place in Brussels in October. Subsequently, a team visited India, and this month, in December, the EU Trade Commissioner was also present to address other outstanding issues. Both sides remain engaged, and we are looking at how to advance the discussions on the India–EU FTA," he added.
Reports indicate that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa will be the chief guests at India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26. Their visit is expected to coincide with the India-EU Summit, where the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will be a key topic of discussion.
Point of View
I believe that India's proactive engagement with influential economies like the US and EU reflects a strategic approach to enhancing its trade relations. These negotiations are critical for India's economic growth and global standing, and the government's commitment to achieving mutually beneficial agreements is commendable.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the India-US bilateral trade agreement?
India and the US are currently engaged in advanced negotiations to finalize a mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement.
What other countries has India signed free trade agreements with?
India has finalized free trade agreements with Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, which are part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance.
What is the India-EU FTA?
The India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aims to enhance trade relations between India and the European Union, with ongoing negotiations focused on resolving outstanding issues.
When will the next India-EU Summit take place?
The next India-EU Summit is expected to coincide with India's Republic Day celebrations on January 26.
Who are the key figures involved in these trade discussions?
Key figures include India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
