EU FTA a fillip for agri, processed food

EU accounted for 12-13% of India’s total agri exports of $37 bn by value in FY25

- Vijay C. Roy

India’s agricultural and processed food producers will benefit from the India~European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which aims to level the playing field for Indian farmers and agri-based businesses in Europe, while protecting key domestic sectors like dairy, cereals, poultry, soymeal, and certain fruits and vegetables.

The agreement is expected to enhance the competitiveness of key Indian commodities, including tea, coffee, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables, and processed food products in EU. The development assumes significance in the backdrop of the EU accounting for 12-13%, or about $4.4-4.8 billion, of India’s total agricultural exports of $37 billion by value in FY2024-25.

“India has prudently safeguarded sensitive sectors, including dairy, cereals, poultry, soymeal, certain fruits and vegetables, balancing export growth with domestic priorities,” India’s commerce and industry ministry said ina statement.