India’s goods trade with the EU was about USD 136.5 billion in 2024-25, making the EU its largest goods partner, with the EU accounting for roughly 17% of India’s exports and 9% of its imports.

The EU is seeking sizable duty cuts for autos and medical devices and wants tax reductions on wine, spirits, meat, and poultry, while a robust IP regime is also on the table; Indian exports like garments, pharmaceuticals, steel, and electrical machinery could gain competitiveness if the pact is approved.

The Brussels visit takes place during the most difficult stretch of negotiations, with both sides seeking to bridge gaps after the latest round of talks in early December.

The negotiations span 23 policy areas, including goods, services, investment, rules of origin, customs and dispute settlement, intellectual property, GI protections, and sustainable development.

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister will visit Brussels early in the new year for talks with EU Trade Commissioner on nearing the final phase of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations.

The discussions will cover the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and are aimed at bridging remaining differences to reach a balanced, mutually beneficial pact as soon as possible.

India’s Commerce Secretary will also travel to Brussels, underscoring high-level engagement on the FTA and its CBAM-related sticking points.