CSIS Senior Advisor Richard Rossow analyses impact of historic FTA between India & EU

Jan 28, 2026

Washington D. C. (USA), January 28, 2026 (ANI): Senior Advisor at CSIS, Richard Rossow, speaking to ANI about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), observes that while the FTA is likely to provide an economic boost, it is unlikely to transform India’s growth from 7% to 20%, though it may slightly invigorate sluggish European economies. He notes India’s strategic engagement across Europe, including agreements with the UK and the Swiss-led EFTA, reflecting stronger ties with Europe than sometimes within India itself. On the security dimension, Rossow says the FTA has limited significance, as European countries are primarily focused on economic interests with China, and India’s security priorities remain centered on neighboring countries, with little overlap for deep integration. He highlights India’s intentional trade strategy, focusing on developed countries, protecting key sectors like agriculture, and gradually moving away from early protectionist policies, signaling openness to global supply chains. Overall, he sees the FTA as a milestone agreement, covering a quarter of the world’s population and trade, strengthening India’s international partnerships while maintaining flexibility in security and commercial engagements.