"Germany and India's bilateral trade reached just under 31 billion (around $36 billion) in 2024, according to provisional German government statistics, putting the world's most populous country only 23rd overall in Germany's list of trade partners. But Wadephul said opportunities were presenting themselves, saying India and the EU might be able to reach a free trade deal in the coming months if ongoing negotiations progress positively."
"The initial goal was to complete the process by the end of this year, but both sides have been digging their heels in. The EU is pushing for reduced import duties on cars surely an area where Germany has a strong opinion and on dairy produce, as well as Indian commitments to stricter climate and labor standards. India, meanwhile, is seeking to ensure protection for its farmers, to avoid rigid environmental standards and to retain control over potential legal disputes."
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul traveled to New Delhi to focus on doubling bilateral trade with India. Both countries regard the goal of doubling trade as realistic. Bilateral trade reached just under 31 billion euros in 2024, ranking India 23rd among Germany's trade partners. Wadephul said India and the EU might reach a free trade deal in coming months if negotiations progress. He urged lowering trade barriers as some countries impose steep tariffs, citing recent 50% tariffs on Indian imports. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar called for German support to accelerate talks with the EU. Negotiations face disputes over car import duties, dairy, climate and labor standards, farm protections, and legal dispute mechanisms.
Read at www.dw.com
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