The buzz in India’s industry circles is palpable as the India-EU Free Trade Agreement edges closer to reality. Dubbed a ‘game-changer’ by top business bodies, this deal could catapult Indian exports to Europe by $75 billion, spotlighting labor-intensive powerhouses.
Textiles, leather goods, marine products, and jewelry sectors are primed for a $33 billion windfall through prioritized market entry. CII’s Chandrajit Banerjee calls it a strategic triumph, strengthening ties between two democracies that together command a quarter of global GDP.
‘It’s a decisive boost to our edge in premium EU markets,’ Banerjee affirmed. The agreement fuels manufacturer prowess, service sector expansion, and inflows of capital and tech, embedding India firmly in international production networks.
Beyond immediate gains for SMEs and workforce-heavy industries, the FTA crafts mobility frameworks for skilled Indian professionals, fostering inclusive development that mirrors the 2047 Viksit Bharat goal.
Anant Goenka of FICCI labels the EU as the crown jewel among India’s recent FTAs. This vast market unlocks manufacturing booms, value chain synergies, and sharper export edges in premium domains.
PHDCCI’s Dr. Ranjeet Mehta projects explosive growth: 35-45% export uptick to the EU in five years. Pharma exports may climb 8-12% annually, with engineering products like machinery hitting 7-10% through supply chain fusions.
Tariff reductions, investment shields, and GI protections elevate India from bulk exporter to innovation hub. As negotiations advance, this FTA heralds unprecedented economic momentum for India’s global trade ambitions.