New Delhi, June 12 (H.S): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the need to address non-tariff barriers in the ongoing negotiations for the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union (EU). During his address to the Swedish Business Confederation at the India-Sweden high-level trade and investment policy forum, he indicated that both sides are nearing the finalization of the FTA discussions, aiming to ease business operations for firms in both regions. Goyal expressed enthusiasm for engaging with Swedish and Indian businesses, highlighting the potential for cooperation and mutual benefits. He reinforced the importance of the joint commitment to establishing robust economic ties. Notable discussions included those on sustainable packaging solutions with Tetra Pak's MD, encompassing research, development, and advanced equipment manufacturing.

Goyal also interacted with the Swedish business community at a dinner organized by the Sweden-India Business Council, underlining investment opportunities in India. The negotiations between India and the EU, which had been stalled since 2013, resumed in June 2022. Goyal's visit to Sweden aims to foster trade and investment, recognizing Sweden's pivotal role within the 27-member EU.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar