The conclusion of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement marks a significant milestone for the steel sector, with the Indian Steel Association (ISA) calling it a long-awaited and positive development for bilateral trade and sustainability-led growth.
India currently exports around 3–4 million tonnes of steel annually to the EU, while imports from the bloc remain limited at 0.3–0.4 million tonnes. With a review of tariff rate quotas expected, the ISA believes Indian steelmakers can look forward to enhanced market access and higher export allocations.
Beyond trade volumes, the FTA is expected to deepen cooperation in low-carbon steel production, aligning India’s manufacturing ambitions with Europe’s decarbonisation goals. ISA President Naveen Jindal noted that the agreement would expand overall economic engagement, boost India’s growth momentum, and, in turn, drive domestic steel demand.
The ISA also highlighted its consultative role in the negotiations, ensuring industry perspectives were reflected. Alongside steel, sectors such as apparel, chemicals and footwear will gain duty-free EU access, while the EU will receive concessional entry for select products into India.
