India-EU Free Trade Agreement Negotiations: Piyush Goyal to Visit Brussels Tomorrow

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, is scheduled to visit Brussels for a significant two-day official trip on 8-9 January 2026. This visit represents a critical phase in India-EU economic relations and underscores intensifying diplomatic and technical engagements aimed at advancing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.

Historic Context of Negotiations

The India-EU trade negotiations were ambitiously re-launched in June 2022 after a hiatus of over nine years, reflecting renewed mutual commitment to deepen economic integration. Since resumption, both sides have completed 14 rounds of intensive negotiations coupled with several high-level Ministerial dialogues. The most recent interaction occurred in December 2025, demonstrating sustained momentum in discussions.

Importance and Trade Dynamics

The European Union currently holds the position of India's largest trading partner and a key investor. Bilateral trade in goods has

strengthened notably in the 2024-25 fiscal year, underlining the significance of this emerging agreement. This proposed FTA transcends conventional trade mechanisms and is envisioned as a comprehensive partnership addressing modern economic realities.

Primary Objectives of the Brussels Engagement

During the visit, Shri Goyal will engage in high-level dialogues with the European Union's Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Mr. Maroš Šefčovič. These interactions aim to provide strategic guidance to negotiating teams, resolve pending issues, and accelerate the conclusion of a balanced and ambitious agreement. Detailed deliberations are expected across key agreement areas, focusing on narrowing divergences and establishing clarity on outstanding matters.

India's Negotiation Framework

Guided by the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India's negotiation strategy prioritizes securing tangible benefits for its citizens. A central pillar involves securing zero-duty access for labor-intensive sectors, including textiles, leather, apparel, gems and jewellery, and handicrafts. The engagement follows intensive deliberations held between India's Commerce Secretary, Shri Rajesh Agrawal, and the European Commission's Director-General for Trade, Ms. Sabine Weyand, during 6-7 January 2026.

Both nations have demonstrated strong political resolve to deliver a comprehensive deal that upholds a rules-based trading framework while safeguarding the interests of farmers and MSMEs.