India’s recently concluded free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union marks a major step in expanding agricultural export opportunities for Indian farmers. The deal, finalised after nearly two decades of negotiations, connects two massive markets representing around 2 billion people and a significant share of global GDP.

A key advantage is preferential or zero-duty access for many Indian exports to Europe, improving price competitiveness for products that previously faced tariffs of 4%–26%. This includes agricultural and processed goods such as tea, coffee, spices, fruits, vegetables, and specialty food products, which are expected to gain stronger demand in European markets.

Early trade data already shows momentum, with exports of cereals, fish, tea, and spices to the EU rising and expected to grow further under reduced duties.

Importantly, negotiators built safeguards to protect sensitive domestic sectors while still enabling high-value farm exports, balancing market access with farmer security.