What happened:
The Ministry of External Affairs said India is actively engaged with the United States and the European Union to finalise trade agreements. Talks with the US continue on a bilateral trade deal, following the December 9–11 visit of US Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer, who met Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and senior officials. Negotiations with the EU are also progressing, with the 14th round of FTA talks held in Brussels in October and follow-up engagements underway.
Why it matters to India:
Concluding trade agreements with the US and EU would expand market access, improve tariff preferences for Indian exports, and strengthen India’s integration into global supply chains. Along with the recently concluded FTA with New Zealand, these deals support India’s push for diversified trade partnerships and sustained economic growth.