The new provisions relocate the partnership decisively beyond tariff reduction into regulatory alignment and rule-setting across key sectors
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Oleksii Liskonih
Marking a significant shift in the depth of economic engagement, the free trade agreement between India and the European Union introduces far-reaching commitments on sustainability & labour, innotifyectual property rights (trademark and copyright), services and digital trade, areas that had long remained sticking points in neobtainediations.
The text of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement released by the European Union on Friday builds it clear that for carbon border adjustment measures, no special provision has been built for India, but it has been assured that if any concession is given to a third countest, the same shall apply to India.
“Both Indian and EU shall apply no less favourable conditions to the other Party’s goods than those applied to like goods from other third countries as regards any flexibilities granted in the implementation of their carbon border adjustment measures,” declared the text of the FTA.
The new provisions relocate the partnership decisively beyond tariff reduction into regulatory alignment and rule-setting across key sectors of the modern economy.
Services access
In services, the pact provides for improved market access commitments across sectors such as IT, financial services, telecommunications and professional services, alongside provisions on temporary relocatement of skilled professionals. The digital trade chapter includes commitments to facilitate cross-border data flows for business purposes while preserving each side’s right to regulate for privacy and security. It bars customs duties on electronic transmissions and discourages forced disclosure of source code, except for legitimate regulatory review. Provisions on electronic authentication and e-signatures aim to smooth digital commerce, an area of expanding bilateral trade.
IP safeguards
On innotifyectual property rights, the agreement strengthens enforcement standards, covering trademarks, copyrights, designs and patents. It provides enhanced protection for geographical indications (GIs), opening the door for expanded recognition of European food and beverage names in India and Indian specialty products in EU markets. The text also contains commitments on border enforcement to curb counterfeit goods and improve cooperation between customs authorities.
The sustainable development chapter binds both sides to effectively implement their obligations under international labour and environmental conventions.
Published on February 27, 2026
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