
India-EFTA trade pact to be implemented from Oct 1: Goyal
trade
agreement between India and the four-nation European bloc EFTA will be implemented from October 1, Commerce and Industry Minister
Piyush Goyal
said on Saturday.
The two sides signed the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) on March 10, 2024.
Explore courses from Top Institutes in
Select a Course Category
Public Policy
Finance
Artificial Intelligence
Management
Data Science
Data Science
Healthcare
Degree
Digital Marketing
Technology
CXO
Cybersecurity
PGDM
MCA
MBA
Product Management
Leadership
Operations Management
Project Management
Others
Data Analytics
others
healthcare
Design Thinking
Skills you'll gain:
Duration:
12 Months
IIM Calcutta
Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management
Starts on
undefined
Get Details
Skills you'll gain:
Economics for Public Policy Making
Quantitative Techniques
Public & Project Finance
Law, Health & Urban Development Policy
Duration:
12 Months
IIM Kozhikode
Professional Certificate Programme in Public Policy Management
Starts on
Mar 3, 2024
Get Details
Under the pact, India has received an investment commitment of
USD 100 billion
in 15 years from the grouping while allowing several products, such as Swiss watches, chocolates, and cut and polished diamonds, at lower or zero duties.
"India-EFTA TEPA to come into effect from 1st October," Goyal said in a post on X.
The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) members are Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and
Switzerland
.
Live Events
The bloc has committed an investment of USD 100 billion -- USD 50 billion within 10 years after the implementation of the agreement and another USD 50 billion in the next five years -- which would facilitate the creation of 1 million direct jobs in India.
This is a first-of-its-kind pledge agreed upon in any of the trade deals signed by India so far.
The commitment is the key substance of the agreement, which took almost 16 years to conclude, for India in return for opening its
markets
for several products coming from the EFTA nations.
The biggest trading partner of India in the bloc is Switzerland.
India has low trade volumes with the remaining three countries.
In the pact, India is offering 82.7 per cent of its
tariff
lines or product categories, which cover 95.3 per cent of EFTA exports, of which more than 80 per cent of imports are gold.
Domestic customers will get access to high-quality Swiss products, such as watches, chocolates, biscuits, and clocks, at lower prices as India will phase out customs duties under the trade pact on these goods over 10 years.
In the services sector, the commerce ministry has earlier stated that India has offered 105 sub-sectors to the EFTA, like accounting, business services, computer services, distribution and health.
On the other hand, the country has secured commitments in 128 sub-sectors from Switzerland, 114 from Norway, 107 from Liechtenstein, and 110 from Iceland.
Segments, where Indian services will get a boost, include legal, audio-visual, R&D, computer, accounting, and auditing.
Further, the pact would provide an opportunity for domestic exporters to integrate into the EU (European Union) markets. Over 40 per cent of Switzerland's global services exports are to the EU. Indian companies can look to Switzerland as a base for extending their market reach to the EU.
India-EFTA two-way trade
was USD 24.4 billion in 2024-25.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
8 minutes ago
- Time of India
Second airport backed by Abu Dhabi inaugurated in the Maldives with AED 330.5 million investment
The Velana International Airport project was co-financed by ADFD alongside the Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development/ Image: WAM The Republic of Maldives and the United Arab Emirates have marked another milestone in a longstanding partnership centered on sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement. Over four decades of cooperation through the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has seen the successful implementation of critical projects across sectors like tourism, energy, transportation, and healthcare. Most recently, two significant aviation projects, Maafaru International Airport earlier this month and Velana International Airport today, stand as the latest additions to a portfolio exceeding AED 1.11 billion (approx. USD 302 million). These projects are not only infrastructural upgrades but also strategic interventions to enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and position Maldives as a global hub. Velana Airport Inaugurated on Maldives' 60th Independence Anniversary The Government of Maldives today inaugurated the Velana International Airport, a flagship development aligned with the country's strategic infrastructure goals, with participation from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) highlighting its key role in the project. The event coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence, adding symbolic significance to the unveiling of this high-impact development. The airport's transformation was made possible by a total investment of AED 330.5 million (USD 90 million) from ADFD, executed in two phases, and co-financed by the Saudi Fund for Development, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the OPEC Fund for International Development. This multi-stakeholder cooperation highlights a shared commitment among Gulf-based development partners to support inclusive and sustainable growth in developing nations. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of prominent leaders and officials, including: Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi , Director-General of ADFD Rahma bin Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Maldives Senior representatives from the partnering development funds and both governments The upgraded Velana Airport can now accommodate over 7 million passengers annually, a major boost to the nation's capacity to handle international travel and tourism. Key features of the project include: Expansion of the western passenger terminal Installation of 26 passenger boarding bridges Development of a state-of-the-art international terminal. These infrastructure upgrades aim to position Velana International Airport as a vital commercial, tourism, and investment hub in the Indian Ocean, enhancing the Maldives' global competitiveness in aviation and hospitality. During the inauguration, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for the enduring support shown by the UAE towards the Maldives' development goals. 'ADFD's financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives' position in the global aviation sector,' he said, adding that the project marks a key step in strengthening the country's global aviation presence. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, highlighted the significance of the collaboration as a model for regional cooperation in sustainable development: 'Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to the country's economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future,' he said, noting that the project reflects ADFD's broader mission to support impactful, long-term growth in partner countries. Maafaru Airport Sets the Stage for Regional Connectivity The Velana project follows the recent launch of Maafaru International Airport on 8th July 2025, another high-impact ADFD-funded initiative aimed at improving access to the country's northern islands and luxury resorts. Constructed with an investment of AED 367 million (USD 100 million), Maafaru Airport includes a 2,850-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway, capable of receiving large wide-body aircraft including Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The airport is designed to serve as a key gateway to seven surrounding luxury resorts, playing a pivotal role in driving tourism revenue and employment in the region. The inauguration ceremony was attended by: Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives Dr. Abdulla Muththalib , Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD During the event, Minister Mohamed Saeed extended his appreciation to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, noting the strategic value of the bilateral relationship and the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting sustainable development in the Maldives. He also acknowledged ADFD's vital role in helping the country implement transformative projects and strengthen key economic sectors such as transport and tourism. Partnership Built Over Four Decades The Maldives' development partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) began in 1978. Since then, ADFD has financed 11 strategic projects across vital sectors such as transportation, tourism, energy, and healthcare, with total investments exceeding AED 1.11 billion (USD 302 million). The recently inaugurated airport projects are a continuation of this enduring collaboration, aligning with the Maldives' national development agenda and the UAE's broader vision for international cooperation and sustainable growth. Established in 1971, ADFD is one of the UAE's leading financial institutions, focused on supporting infrastructure development in emerging economies. The Fund manages UAE government grants for key strategic projects and follows a diversified investment strategy that enhances economic resilience in partner countries. It also finances UAE-based private sector companies to help expand their global reach and competitiveness.


The Print
33 minutes ago
- The Print
Sotefin Bharat plans Rs 80 crore IPO to build parking robot unit for automated parking in Bengal
'We are in the process of launching an IPO, which will help us become Atmanirbhar in the production of robots used in automated parking systems. The robot manufacturing facility will require around Rs 40 crore, while the remaining Rs 40 crore will be largely used for debt reduction and enhancing working capital to undertake larger projects,' Sotefin Bharat Managing Director & CEO Arup Choudhuri told PTI. The entire issue will be a fresh equity offer, with no stake dilution by the promoters or existing PE funds, a top company official said. Kolkata, Jul 27 (PTI) Swiss automated parking solutions major Sotefin SA's Indian subsidiary, Sotefin Bharat, on Sunday said it will hit the capital market to raise Rs 80 crore to support indigenous manufacturing of robots for automated parking systems in West Bengal. The company has announced a new manufacturing facility at Bagnan in West Bengal's Howrah district, entailing an investment of approximately Rs 40 crore. Once fully operational with in-house robotic manufacturing capabilities, the state-of-the-art plant is expected to create over 100 jobs and significantly boost Sotefin Bharat's production capacity, Choudhuri said. The facility is projected to support the creation of over 10,000 automated car parks or 25 automated parking projects per year, he added. The equity structure of the company is evenly held by two Indian promoters—Arup Choudhuri and Jignesh Sanghvi—Swiss partner Sotefin SA, and a clutch of PE funds, each holding 25 per cent. Post IPO, the fresh issue will dilute all existing promoter holdings by 6.25 per cent, taking public shareholding to nearly 25-26 per cent, Choudhuri said. The listing will also help unlock value, and the company is currently working with merchant bankers to prepare the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP), which is expected to be filed with the regulator within a month. The company has also started exporting its systems to the US and Dubai, officials said. 'Our order book currently stands at Rs 1,000 crore, which should support a 50–60 per cent growth over the next 3–4 years,' said Executive Director Jignesh Sanghvi. PTI BSM RG This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.


Time of India
34 minutes ago
- Time of India
Abu Dhabi-backed Velana International Airport in Maldives inaugurated with AED 330.5 million investment
The Velana International Airport project was co-financed by ADFD alongside the Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development/ Image: WAM The Republic of Maldives and the United Arab Emirates have marked another milestone in a longstanding partnership centered on sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement. Over four decades of cooperation through the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has seen the successful implementation of critical projects across sectors like tourism, energy, transportation, and healthcare. Most recently, two significant aviation projects, Maafaru International Airport earlier this month and Velana International Airport today, stand as the latest additions to a portfolio exceeding AED 1.11 billion (approx. USD 302 million). These projects are not only infrastructural upgrades but also strategic interventions to enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and position Maldives as a global hub. Velana Airport Inaugurated on Maldives' 60th Independence Anniversary The Government of Maldives today inaugurated the Velana International Airport, a flagship development aligned with the country's strategic infrastructure goals, with participation from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) highlighting its key role in the project. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The event coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence, adding symbolic significance to the unveiling of this high-impact development. The airport's transformation was made possible by a total investment of AED 330.5 million (USD 90 million) from ADFD, executed in two phases, and co-financed by the Saudi Fund for Development, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the OPEC Fund for International Development. This multi-stakeholder cooperation highlights a shared commitment among Gulf-based development partners to support inclusive and sustainable growth in developing nations. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of prominent leaders and officials, including: Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi , Director-General of ADFD Rahma bin Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Maldives Senior representatives from the partnering development funds and both governments The upgraded Velana Airport can now accommodate over 7 million passengers annually, a major boost to the nation's capacity to handle international travel and tourism. Key features of the project include: Expansion of the western passenger terminal Installation of 26 passenger boarding bridges Development of a state-of-the-art international terminal. These infrastructure upgrades aim to position Velana International Airport as a vital commercial, tourism, and investment hub in the Indian Ocean, enhancing the Maldives' global competitiveness in aviation and hospitality. During the inauguration, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for the enduring support shown by the UAE towards the Maldives' development goals. 'ADFD's financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives' position in the global aviation sector,' he said, adding that the project marks a key step in strengthening the country's global aviation presence. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, highlighted the significance of the collaboration as a model for regional cooperation in sustainable development: 'Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to the country's economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future,' he said, noting that the project reflects ADFD's broader mission to support impactful, long-term growth in partner countries. Maafaru Airport Sets the Stage for Regional Connectivity The Velana project follows the recent launch of Maafaru International Airport on 8th July 2025, another high-impact ADFD-funded initiative aimed at improving access to the country's northern islands and luxury resorts. Constructed with an investment of AED 367 million (USD 100 million), Maafaru Airport includes a 2,850-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway, capable of receiving large wide-body aircraft including Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The airport is designed to serve as a key gateway to seven surrounding luxury resorts, playing a pivotal role in driving tourism revenue and employment in the region. The inauguration ceremony was attended by: Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives Dr. Abdulla Muththalib , Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD During the event, Minister Mohamed Saeed extended his appreciation to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, noting the strategic value of the bilateral relationship and the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting sustainable development in the Maldives. He also acknowledged ADFD's vital role in helping the country implement transformative projects and strengthen key economic sectors such as transport and tourism. Partnership Built Over Four Decades The Maldives' development partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) began in 1978. Since then, ADFD has financed 11 strategic projects across vital sectors such as transportation, tourism, energy, and healthcare, with total investments exceeding AED 1.11 billion (USD 302 million). The recently inaugurated airport projects are a continuation of this enduring collaboration, aligning with the Maldives' national development agenda and the UAE's broader vision for international cooperation and sustainable growth. Established in 1971, ADFD is one of the UAE's leading financial institutions, focused on supporting infrastructure development in emerging economies. The Fund manages UAE government grants for key strategic projects and follows a diversified investment strategy that enhances economic resilience in partner countries. It also finances UAE-based private sector companies to help expand their global reach and competitiveness.