EU on cusp of historic trade deal with India: Ursula von der Leyen - The Hindu
The European Union and India are moving closer to sealing a long-awaited free trade agreement, signalling a major shift in their economic relationship. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said negotiations are at a decisive stage after years of stalled discussions. Both sides are eager to finalise the deal amid growing global trade uncertainty and supply chain disruptions. The proposed agreement aims to reduce tariffs, improve market access, and strengthen cooperation across sectors such as manufacturing, green energy, technology, and services. India sees the pact as an opportunity to attract European investment and boost exports, while the EU views India as a strategic partner in balancing global trade dependencies. Although challenges remain — particularly over market access, regulatory standards, and labour issues — recent political momentum has helped narrow differences. If concluded, the deal would rank among the EU’s largest trade agreements and mark a significant milestone in EU–India relations.
The Key points
- EU and India are close to finalising a free trade agreement.
- Talks had stalled for years but regained momentum recently.
- Ursula von der Leyen called the negotiations “decisive.”
- The deal aims to cut tariffs and boost bilateral trade.
- Manufacturing, technology, and green energy are key focus areas.
- India expects increased European investment and exports.
- EU sees India as a strategic economic partner.
- Differences remain on regulations and labour standards.
- Global trade uncertainty has pushed both sides closer.
- The pact could become one of the EU’s biggest trade deals.
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