EU trade and agriculture commissioners to be in Delhi this week for India–EU FTA talks

A high-profile European Union delegation, led by Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefcović and Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen, is arriving in New Delhi this week for the 13th round of India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.

This marks their first visit to the Indian capital since February of this year, when the EU's College of Commissioners travelled here.

The delegation, comprising approximately 30 officials, will hold talks with Indian counterparts, including Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, to tackle core issues holding up the FTA finalization.

Key agenda items include market access, non-tariff barriers, rules of origin, and regulatory issues related to sectors such as wine, dairy, agriculture, and public procurement.

These negotiations build on progress in earlier rounds — 11 out of 23 chapters, including digital trade, customs and trade facilitation, intellectual property, dispute settlement, and anti-fraud clauses, have been finalized.

The current discussions are pivotal in resolving remaining disagreements, paving the way for a year-end conclusion of the FTA.

Against the backdrop of rising global trade uncertainties, including elevated U.S. tariffs, this agreement is seen as a strategic economic move by both sides.

The EU is India’s largest trading partner, with declining global trade dynamics adding urgency to the FTA’s conclusion.

In addition to this week’s meetings, multiple high-level engagements have been scheduled in the coming months, encompassing strategic dialogues, counter-terrorism collaborations, and preparations for an India–EU leaders’ summit expected in early 2026.

The outcome of this round will be critical, not just for economic integration but also for strengthening India–EU strategic ties amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.