This is what's in the India-EU trade deal — and who stands to gain
CNBC·2026-01-27 13:30

Core Viewpoint - India and the European Union have finalized a trade deal that will remove or reduce tariffs on over 90% of goods traded between them [1][2] Group 1: Trade Agreement Details - The free trade agreement will see India reduce tariffs on European automobile and agricultural products, while the EU will reciprocate by lowering tariffs on Indian textiles, leather, marine products, and gems and jewelry [2] - The deal is expected to come into force in 2026, as stated by India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal [4] Group 2: Economic Impact - The agreement creates a free trade zone of 2 billion people, with both India and the EU set to gain economically [3] - India is currently the EU's ninth-largest trading partner, accounting for 2.4% of the bloc's total trade in goods in 2024, while the EU is one of India's largest trading partners, rivaling the U.S. and China [5] Group 3: Context and Significance - The deal is described as "historic" and comes at a time when India is seeking alternative markets due to the impact of U.S. tariffs [4] - The agreement sends a message that rules-based cooperation can yield significant outcomes, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen [3]