India signs historic FTA with EFTA to boost trade, jobs, and investment

The India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), India’s first free trade agreement (FTA) with four European nations, promises $100 billion in investments and the creation of 1 million direct jobs over the next 15 years, government data revealed on Saturday.

The agreement, which took effect on October 1, enhances market access, strengthens intellectual property rights, and promotes sustainable development while supporting the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.

TEPA covers 14 chapters, addressing key issues such as market access, trade facilitation, investment, intellectual property, and sustainable development. The pact ensures India covers 82.7% of EFTA’s exports, while EFTA covers 92.2% of India’s exports.

The four EFTA nations—Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway—have committed to investing $100 billion in India, creating long-term jobs and boosting innovation. Additionally, a dedicated India–EFTA Desk is facilitating investment in renewable energy, life sciences, engineering, and digital sectors.

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