India and the four-nation European bloc EFTA have recently signed a free trade agreement (FTA), marking a significant milestone in their economic partnership. Let's delve into the key details of this agreement.

Increased Investments and Job Creation Opportunities

Under the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), India aims to attract $100 billion in investments from the EFTA countries, which include Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. This substantial investment is expected to fuel economic growth and create one million jobs in India. The agreement focuses on tariff reductions, market access enhancement, and simplified customs procedures to facilitate smoother trade between the nations.

Commitment to Human Rights and Sustainable Development

In a significant move, the FTA also includes a chapter on commitments to human rights and sustainable development. This marks a progressive step in international trade agreements, reinforcing the importance of these fundamental values.

Ratification Process and Timeline

The agreement will come into force after ratification by the EFTA states through their parliamentary procedures. The ratification process is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. Once in effect, the agreement will open up new avenues for trade and cooperation between India and the EFTA countries.

Investment Goals: Commitment or Aspiration?

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the unique achievement of including clauses on investment commitments in the FTA. The agreement aims to secure a binding commitment from EFTA countries to invest $100 billion in India. However, EFTA ministers clarified that the commitment represents a goal for both sides, based on current investment levels and GDP predictions. The agreement also sets the objective of generating one million jobs in India within 15 years through these investments. Regular assessments will be conducted to ensure progress towards these goals.

A Win-Win Agreement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the TEPA as a "win-win" agreement for all nations involved. This agreement is expected to strengthen economic ties between India and the European trading bloc. It marks a significant milestone in their bilateral relationship and opens up new avenues for mutual growth and cooperation.

Controversial Pharma Clause

During the negotiations, Swiss negotiators pushed for a clause on "data exclusivity" for pharmaceuticals. However, Indian negotiators rejected its inclusion in the agreement. Health activists raised concerns, arguing that such a clause could increase the burden on Indian manufacturers of life-saving generic medicines. The TEPA includes a review mechanism for intellectual property rights (IPR), but the controversy surrounding the clause remains.

Increasing Trade and Addressing Trade Deficit

The concluded TEPA is expected to boost trade in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, food products, processing, and research and development. Currently, the trade volume between India and the EFTA countries stands at approximately $25 billion, with a trade deficit of $18.58 billion. The FTA aims to address this deficit and create a more balanced trade relationship.

As the agreement moves towards ratification, India and the EFTA countries can look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership that fosters economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.