India, EU begin talks on customs cooperation ahead of trade pact signing set for next month

India and the European Union have begun discussions on customs procedures and other arrangements needed to implement their free trade agreement (FTA), ahead of its planned signing in December.The discussions took place during Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal's visit to Brussels last week, where he met senior officials from three European Commission departments dealing with trade, international partnerships, and taxation and customs.The meetings focused on customs cooperation, trade facilitation and preparations for putting the India-EU trade pact into effect, the commerce ministry said on Monday.Emphasising the importance of smoother cross-border trade, the ministry said, “Both sides recognised the importance of efficient, transparent, and digitally enabled customs procedures in supporting businesses, reducing transaction costs, and ensuring the smooth movement of legitimate trade,” as quoted by PTI.The visit also included discussions with representatives of the diamond industry linked to Antwerp, one of the world's major diamond trading centres. The talks covered the global diamond supply chain, certification and traceability standards, responsible sourcing, and opportunities emerging from India's expanding diamond market and manufacturing base.India and Belgium have identified gems and jewellery as an important area for closer cooperation, with Antwerp, Mumbai and Surat recognised as key diamond centres.The India-EU FTA negotiations were formally concluded on January 27. Once implemented, the agreement is expected to provide duty-free access to Indian labour-intensive sectors, including textiles, leather and gems and jewellery.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.