India and EU Discuss FTA Implementation and Trade Facilitation

India and the EU discuss market access, customs cooperation, supply chain resilience and green technologies in Brussels as both sides advance preparations for implementing their Free Trade Agreement.

India and the European Union (EU) have held discussions in Brussels to strengthen bilateral trade, improve market access and advance preparations for implementing their Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal conducted high-level meetings with senior European Commission officials and industry representatives on November 1, 2026, focusing on trade facilitation, customs cooperation, supply chain resilience and investment opportunities.

During his meeting with Ditte Juul Jorgensen, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Trade and Economic Security, both sides discussed measures to facilitate two-way trade, improve market access and create new opportunities for Indian and European businesses. They also reaffirmed their commitment to a fair, balanced and mutually beneficial agreement and agreed to maintain engagement on outstanding procedural and implementation-related matters.

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Agrawal also met Koen Doens, Director-General of the Directorate-General for International Partnerships, to discuss development cooperation and strategic partnerships. The discussions covered sustainable development, clean energy and green technologies, with both sides exploring opportunities to expand collaboration in these areas.

In a separate meeting with Gerassimos Thomas, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union, discussions focused on customs cooperation and preparations for implementing the India-EU FTA. Both sides highlighted the importance of efficient, transparent and digitally enabled customs procedures to reduce transaction costs for businesses and facilitate the movement of goods across borders.

The Commerce Secretary also engaged with representatives from the diamond industry, including stakeholders associated with Antwerp's diamond ecosystem. The discussions covered global diamond value chains, certification, traceability requirements, responsible sourcing and opportunities arising from India's expanding diamond manufacturing sector. India and Belgium have identified gems and jewellery as an important area for deeper cooperation, with Antwerp, Mumbai and Surat recognised as major diamond centres.

At a BusinessEurope roundtable, Agrawal interacted with European industry representatives to discuss ways to strengthen trade and investment ties, improve market access and advance cooperation under the proposed FTA. He highlighted India's economic growth, ongoing reforms and investment opportunities across key sectors, encouraging European businesses to expand their engagement with the Indian market and participate in its growing value chains.

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The engagements follow the conclusion of India-EU FTA negotiations at the 16th India-EU Summit on January 27, 2026. The agreement is currently undergoing legal revision and verification before the proposed signing. Its implementation will require the completion of the respective approval procedures by both sides.