美关税压力下印欧自贸谈判提速

Core Viewpoint - The pressure from the U.S. tariff measures has accelerated the willingness and demand for India and the EU to expedite free trade negotiations, with a goal to reach an agreement by the end of the year [1][4]. Group 1: Trade Negotiation Progress - India and the EU are expected to hold at least 10 meetings in the coming months to negotiate a free trade agreement [1][4]. - The EU has become one of India's most important trading partners, with bilateral trade in goods projected to reach $137.5 billion in the fiscal year 2024-2025, surpassing the $132 billion trade between India and the U.S. [2]. - Approximately 6,000 European companies operate in India, supporting 2 million direct jobs and 6 million indirect jobs [2]. Group 2: Historical Context - Negotiations for the bilateral free trade agreement began in 2007 but faced delays due to significant differences in economic structures and core demands [2]. - Talks were stalled in 2013 over tariff disagreements on products like automobiles and wine, but were resumed in 2022 with new topics such as geographical indications and investment protection [2]. Group 3: Current Negotiation Challenges - Key areas of disagreement include market access for agricultural and dairy products, rules of origin, food safety standards, and labor and environmental obligations [6][7]. - India is cautious about opening sensitive markets, particularly in agriculture, and seeks to exclude products like rice, sugar, and dairy from negotiations [6]. - The EU demands India to lower tariffs and non-tariff barriers, particularly for automobiles and medical devices, while also emphasizing high standards for intellectual property protection and sustainable development [7]. Group 4: Impact of U.S. Tariffs - The U.S. has imposed significant tariffs on Indian exports, with rates reaching up to 50%, creating direct pressure on India [3][4]. - The EU is also affected by U.S. tariffs, particularly on steel and aluminum, which has intensified the urgency for India and the EU to finalize their trade agreement [3][4]. Group 5: Future Considerations - The implementation of the EU's carbon border tax, effective January 1, 2026, poses a significant challenge for India, as it will affect high carbon emission products exported to the EU, potentially increasing costs and reducing competitiveness [7]. - The U.S. is closely monitoring the India-EU negotiations and may influence the process by leveraging its trade relations with both parties [8].