India–EU Trade Sees Marginal Decline In FY25; FTA Awaiting Ratification

New Delhi, Mar 14 (KNN) India’s exports to the European Union stood at USD 75.85 billion in 2024–25, registering a marginal decline of 0.09 percent, while imports from the EU were valued at USD 60.68 billion, down 1.31 percent, the government informed the Rajya Sabha.

Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada said the figures are based on data from the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS).

The government noted that Indian exporters continue to face several non-tariff measures in the EU market.

These include compliance with the REACH Regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), the CE Marking requirement for product conformity, and the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) applicable to electrical and electronic equipment.

Exporters also have to meet requirements under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, which applies to a wide range of physical goods sold in the EU market.

In addition, Indian exporters face operational challenges such as delays in listing new establishments on the EU’s TRACES NT platform for fish and fishery products, and pending approval of Residue Monitoring Plans (RMP) for milk, poultry meat and related products.

Other concerns include higher sampling checks for Indian aquaculture shrimp consignments and stringent Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for products such as tea, spices and spice derivatives.

Meanwhile, India and the EU concluded negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on January 27, 2026, during the 16th India–EU Summit held in New Delhi.

The agreement will come into force after signing and ratification by both sides, with the process to be carried forward through mutual consultations between the two partners.

(KNN Bureau)