Trade & Economy

The conclusion of negotiations for a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the European Union and India on 27 January 2026 marks a transformative moment for international commerce, establishing a duty-reduced market of two billion people.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a historic state visit to the Slovak Republic on 14–15 June 2026, marking the first time an Indian head of government has visited the nation since its independence in 1993. The visit fundamentally reshaped bilateral relations by elevating ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, reflecting a mutual commitment to deeper strategic, economic, and technological integration. Over the two-day visit, Prime Minister Modi held high-profile dis

On 14 June 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held extensive bilateral talks at the historic Villa Kerylos in Nice, France, marking a transformative milestone in the newly elevated India-France Special Global Strategic Partnership.

India-EU Free Trade Deal Seen as Milestone for Indo-German Commerce

Lawmakers, diplomats, business leaders and civil‑society experts gathered in Brussels on June 9 to explore how Europe and India can deepen ties beyond simple trade deals. The day focused on practical cooperation — from trade and investment to green growth — and pressed the idea that the relationship should be about lasting partnerships, not just tariffs.

India has secured official clearance to continue exporting aquaculture products, honey, eggs, and animal casings to the European Union beyond September 2026, a move the government calls vital for sustaining billions in agri-marine trade with Europe.

In a strategic push to diversify trade routes, India is exploring Lithuania’s Klaipėda port as a “Baltic gateway” to Northern and Central Europe under the wider India–EU partnership. Developments since 2024 underscore this trend: Klaipėda’s port authority has actively courted Indian counterparts, and major agreements have been signed to promote Indo-Lithuanian port collaboration.

EU companies in India have established a substantial economic presence, with 5,833 EU-affiliated firms operating across the country as of March 2024 and generating EUR 186 billion in turnover. This footprint spans manufacturing, services, technology and trade, reflecting a partnership that extends well beyond headline trade figures into jobs, taxation and regional industrial development.