India and EU Near Completion of Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement After 18 Years

India and the European Union are nearing the conclusion of an 18-year negotiation for a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), expected to be announced during the India-EU Summit and Republic Day 2026 celebrations. The deal aims to enhance trade in goods and services, addressing issues like non-tariff barriers, climate taxes, and regulatory challenges, particularly in agriculture and pharmaceuticals. While the FTA promises economic benefits, unresolved concerns remain, including market access and service mobility, amid evolving geopolitical and trade dynamics.