BS EDIT: A big deal: India-EU partnership opens up new opportunities

By Business StandardPublished On Jan 28, 2026

WHY THIS DEAL MATTERS

The India-EU FTA creates access to a two-billion-person market and signals strategic trust

MORE THAN A TRADE PACT

The partnership now spans defence, services, mobility and post-study work visas

THE ECONOMIC SCALE

Together, India and the EU account for 25% of global GDP and one-third of trade

KEY TRADE TAKEAWAYS

Tariffs will fall sharply, though CBAM relief is limited but non-discriminatory

WHAT INDIA MUST NOT LOSE SIGHT OF

The FTA cannot replace a US deal or broader tariff and trade-policy reform

THE REFORM IMPERATIVE

India must push internal reforms to turn trade openness into competitiveness