Overview
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told lawmakers the agreement would be signed in New Delhi on January 27 without agriculture in the package.
- European Council President António Costa is expected to join von der Leyen for the signing after attending India’s Republic Day, with the summit slated for January 27.
- Indian and EU negotiators remain in constant engagement to settle remaining issues that include the EU’s carbon border measures, duty cuts on select goods, and intellectual property provisions.
- Reports indicate understandings to reduce India’s steep tariffs on European wine and spirits, while protections for European geographical indications are not included.
- If concluded, the deal would become India’s 19th trade agreement, cover a goods trade relationship of about $136.5 billion, and is expected to benefit sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, autos, and services.