Overview
- Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said negotiators are “very close” and engaged daily to have the pact ready before the January 27 summit.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa will visit January 25–27, attend Republic Day, and co-chair the India–EU Summit.
- European media report a possible January 27 signing, while Indian officials indicate an announcement of concluded talks could precede formal signature and ratification.
- Remaining sticking points include the EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism, duty cuts and access for automobiles and medical devices, and intellectual property provisions.
- Agriculture is outside the agreement, with understandings to lower steep Indian tariffs on European wine and spirits reported, and protections for geographical indications not included.