India-EU Trade Agreement Talks Reach Final Stages Amid Ongoing US Negotiations

India is making significant strides in its trade negotiations with the European Union, with talks now in the final stages. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently returned from Brussels, where he engaged in discussions aimed at securing a Free Trade Agreement. Meanwhile, negotiations with the United States are also ongoing, with the new US Ambassador emphasizing the importance of trade and collaboration in various sectors. This article delves into the details of these crucial discussions and their implications for India's economy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 15:51 IST

Final Stages of Trade Talks

Rajkot (Gujarat), Jan 12: The discussions regarding a trade agreement between India and the European Union are now in their concluding phase, while negotiations with the United States for a bilateral trade deal are still ongoing, as stated by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday.

Goyal made this announcement during his keynote speech at the Regional MSME Conclave taking place in Rajkot.

Recently, he returned from Brussels, where he participated in high-level discussions with EU Trade and Economic Security Commissioner Maros Sefcovic, aimed at establishing a mutually beneficial India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

India is advocating for zero-duty access for its labor-intensive industries, including textiles, leather, apparel, gems and jewelry, and handicrafts.

"In our discussions, we focused on crucial aspects of the proposed agreement. We reiterated our dedication to a rules-based trading system and a modern economic partnership that protects the interests of farmers and MSMEs while integrating Indian industries into global supply chains," Goyal shared in a post on X.

His comments regarding the ongoing India-US negotiations coincided with the new US Ambassador to New Delhi, Sergio Gor, announcing that the next round of talks is scheduled for Tuesday (January 13).

While taking charge at the US embassy, Gor conveyed that President Donald Trump sent his best wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Gor remarked, "The friendship between Mr. Trump and Mr. Modi is genuine, and the U.S. and India are connected not only by shared interests but also by a relationship established at the highest levels. True friends may have disagreements, but they ultimately resolve their differences."

He also highlighted that while trade is a significant aspect of India-US relations, both nations will continue to collaborate closely on other critical areas, including security, counter-terrorism, energy, technology, education, and health.

Gor emphasized that both parties maintain regular communication despite existing differences over tariffs and market access.