metro india news  I new delhi

Global businesses, policy experts and think tanks have welcomed the conclusion of the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement, describing it as a long-awaited and strategically significant breakthrough for global commerce.

India and the 27-nation European Union on Tuesday announced the conclusion of negotiations for the ambitious trade pact, often referred to as the “mother of all deals”. The agreement is expected to be signed and implemented within this year, marking a major milestone after nearly two decades of discussions.

European companies with a strong presence in India termed the pact a game changer. Airbus India and South Asia President Jurgen Westermeier, who also heads the Federation of European Business in India, called it a “big moment” after 20 years of engagement. He said the agreement would act as a powerful accelerator for business opportunities on both sides, strengthening long-term industrial and commercial cooperation.

Indo-German Chamber of Commerce Director General Jan Noether highlighted the scale of the agreement, noting that it connects markets representing nearly two billion people and close to a quarter of global GDP. He described it as one of the most significant free trade agreements globally, both in economic size and strategic relevance.

Business leaders across Europe echoed similar sentiments. Berlin Chamber of Commerce President Sebastian Stiezel said the deal sends a strong signal of openness at a time of rising global uncertainty. He emphasised that India should no longer be viewed as a future market, but as a present-day economic powerhouse offering immediate opportunities.

Industry groups such as BusinessEurope and the Croatian Employers’ Association termed the FTA one of the EU’s most important trade moves amid growing global protectionism. Swedish business bodies Svenskt Naringsliv and Foretagarna pointed to benefits such as reduced tariffs, improved market access and stronger supply chain integration.

Chambers Ireland described the agreement as historic, saying it would enhance market access and diversification for Irish exporters, especially in machinery and agri-food sectors.

Global policy experts also praised the pact’s timing and depth. Richard Rossow of the Center for Strategic and International Studies said the agreement’s strong optics reflect equally strong substance, given its coverage of a vast share of global trade. Atlantic Council Senior Fellow Michael Kugelman called it the “right deal at the right time”, noting it strengthens a broader strategic partnership beyond short-term trade disruptions.

The European Council on Foreign Relations said the India–EU FTA stands among the largest trade agreements in recent years, covering goods, services, investment, digital trade and regulatory cooperation.