House Panel Flags Concerns Over Non-Tariff Barriers on Indian Farm Exports to EU

Fast Summary

• Opposition members raised concerns about non-tariff barriers for Indian agricultural exports to the EU and U.K. during a parliamentary meeting headed by Shashi Tharoor on September 10, 2025.
• The meeting was held prior to EU-India Free Trade agreement (FTA) discussions led by European Commissioner for Trade Maros Sefcovic and Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen in Delhi.
• Agriculture remains a contentious issue in FTA talks; both sides agreed to keep dairy, sugar, and rice out of negotiations.
• Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal briefed parliamentarians on key aspects related to India’s stance. Though,confidentiality was maintained regarding his responses.
• Parliamentarians raised concerns about EU mechanisms like Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which could impact India’s market access for agriculture exports.
• Barthwal reportedly assured lawmakers that Indian interests in agricultural trade would be safeguarded.

[Image: Photo Credit PTI – Shashi Tharoor mentioned Mr. Barthwal candidly addressed queries during the External Affairs committee meeting.]

Indian Opinion Analysis

The parliamentary discussion highlights India’s growing focus on securing equitable terms under the evolving EU trade environment. While agriculture is traditionally sensitive due to domestic priorities and protectionism, exclusion of dairy, sugar, and rice from negotiations reflects mutual acknowledgment of sectoral complexities. Key barriers such as CBAM underline Europe’s alignment with climate commitments but challenge exporters reliant on affordable production systems.

India’s emphasis on “common but differentiated responsibility” suggests a strategic approach aimed at bridging global climate policy with developmental equity for emerging economies. Smooth resolution of current issues will be pivotal not only for ensuring broader market access but also preserving India’s competitive edge in an increasingly regulation-driven trade landscape.

The discussions preceding the FTA negotiation provide insights into India’s preparedness and persisting challenges ahead of possibly concluding transformative agreements by December 2025.

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