India, EU Reaffirm Commitment To Conclude FTA By End-2025 After Brussels Talks

New Delhi, Oct 29 (KNN) Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal concluded discussions with Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, in Brussels on 28 October 2025, on key outstanding issues in the ongoing India–EU FTA negotiations.

In a post on X, the minister wrote, “It was a pleasure to meet my friend @MarosSefcovic, EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security.”

“Our discussions focused on giving impetus to the India-EU FTA negotiations. We also reiterated our shared commitment to achieving a swift, balanced, and mutually beneficial agreement.” he added.

Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to concluding the India–EU FTA by end-2025.

India underscored the need for a fair outcome that addresses tariff and non-tariff barriers and ensures more transparent and predictable regulatory frameworks to facilitate trade. 

Discussions also covered India’s concerns regarding non-tariff measures and recent EU regulatory developments.

According to the Commerce Ministry, both sides explored possible convergence areas and agreed to work toward finalising non-sensitive industrial tariff lines. 

India stressed preferential treatment for labour-intensive sectors, while issues related to steel, automobiles, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and other EU regulations were recognised as needing further deliberation due to higher sensitivities.

The government stated that India remains committed to pursuing a balanced and equitable agreement that supports innovation, expands market access, and contributes to shared economic growth. 

An EU technical delegation led by the Director-General for Trade is expected to visit India next week to advance negotiations and work on solutions discussed during the latest round of talks.

(KNN Bureau)