India-EU trade deal promises unlimited mobility for Indian students
What's the story
India and the European Union (EU) have signed a mobility agreement, aimed at facilitating the movement of Indian students, workers, and professionals across EU countries. The deal is part of a larger Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which both sides see as one of the most important trade deals in decades. Under this pact, the EU has promised "uncapped mobility for Indian students," giving them greater freedom to travel, study and work within its member states.
Talent support
EU's commitment to Indian talent
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized the importance of this agreement in her speech. She said, "Signing an agreement on mobility, we will facilitate the movement of students, researchers. It will be a one-stop hub to support Indian talent." This statement highlights Europe's commitment to welcoming Indian professionals and students while aligning with individual member states' needs and policies.
Trade transformation
India-EU FTA: A major shift in trade relations
The mobility agreement is part of a larger India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which marks a major shift in trade relations between the two. As part of this deal, India has agreed to slash import tariffs on European cars from 110% to 10%, under an annual quota of 250,000 vehicles. This move is seen as a major opening of India's protected automobile market and could significantly boost EU exports to India.
Tariff reduction
FTA to reduce tariffs on European goods
The India-EU FTA also proposes to eliminate or reduce duties on a wide range of European goods, including aircraft, food, alcohol and chemicals. Officials say that 97% of EU goods exported to India will be subject to reduced or zero tariffs once the agreement comes into effect. This is expected to deepen market access and boost EU exports to India.