Piyush Goyal Pushes India-EU Free Trade Agreement Talks During Brussels Visit

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has given a further fillip to the negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement between India and the EU with his two-day visit to Brussels. He had top-level talks with Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security of the European Commission, Maros Sefcovic, during his visit to Brussels on January 8 & 9.

The proposed free trade agreement between India and the EU was at the heart of all the discussions. Protecting farmer and MSME interests was a common priority, but the importance of integrating Indian industries into global supply chains was strongly reinforced. Minister Goyal stated that India and the EU are committed to a rules-based trade framework and a modern economic partnership that is balanced and mutually beneficial.

According to a Commerce Ministry statement, the two leaders reviewed progress made in various negotiation areas, including market access, goods regulations, and services. The ministerial discussions indicated strong political will on both sides to resolve remaining issues through constructive dialogue.

Before the ministerial meeting, high-level discussions were held on January 6-7 between Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal and European Commission Director General (Trade) Sabine Weyand. These discussions reviewed progress on various negotiation tracks and reached consensus on narrowing differences.

Prior to Brussels, Minister Goyal visited Liechtenstein, where he chaired a business roundtable with leading companies. The focus of the discussions was on the implementation of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership (TEPA). This visit was also significant as it was the first official visit by an Indian Cabinet Minister to Liechtenstein.

The Minister stated that this TEPA is not limited to trade liberalization, but also promotes investment, technology cooperation, skills development, and strong value chains. He highlighted India's opportunities in the context of the $100 billion investment commitment made by EFTA countries.

During the meeting, Minister Goyal visited the headquarters of the Hilti Group and met with its CEO, Jehangir Dungaji. Discussions focused on localization, value addition, and increasing global exports in India. An agreement was also reached on technological cooperation for safe and smart infrastructure.

Minister Goyal also met with Liechtenstein's Prime Minister, Brigitte Haas. The two leaders discussed strengthening investment, skills development, vocational training, and industry-education cooperation under the India-EFTA (TEPA). The discussions focused on connecting India's young workforce with Liechtenstein's advanced industrial capabilities.