India to Begin FTA Talks with EAEU, Including Russia, in Early November

Rapid Summary

• The russian Embassy announced that the first round of negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), including Russia, is highly likely to occur in early November, pending confirmation from the Indian government.
• Upcoming FTA negotiation rounds for India include:

– India-EU: October 6-10; nearing “almost all” issues being resolved, with potential for an early harvest deal by December-end as reaffirmed by EU leaders.
– India-Chile: October 27-31.
– India-Peru: November 3-5.

• A review of India’s FTA with ASEAN nations is scheduled for October 6-7 and expected to conclude by year-end.
• Minister Andrey Slepnev from the Eurasian Economic Commission met Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on September 15 to discuss approaches leading up to EAEU negotiations.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The series of FTA negotiations highlights India’s growing focus on diversifying its trade relationships across continents. With talks spanning Europe, South America, Southeast Asia, and now Eurasia through EAEU inclusion, India aims to strengthen its global economic footprint. The anticipated deals could have positive effects on market access and bi-lateral cooperation in sectors like agriculture, technology transfer, and manufacturing.

The potential early conclusion of the EU FTA signals a breakthrough amidst years-long deliberations. If finalized as planned by year-end, this deal could represent one of India’s most notable agreements aligning economic collaboration with strategic European partnerships. Nevertheless, triumphant outcomes depend heavily on mutual consensus over critical areas such as tariff structures.

Meanwhile in ASEAN contexts or newer territories like Chile/Peru-timely reviews and discussions may help tailor India’s export policies effectively towards region-specific consumer demands. Overall these developments underline proactive diplomacy but also pose challenges managing diverse expectations against tight timelines.

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