Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
86. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her assessment of the EU-India trade agreement; the way in which it will benefit Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8353/26]
View answerAt a time of unprecedented economic uncertainty, driven by a dynamic geopolitical backdrop and a rapidly evolving landscape for international trade, it is vital that the EU and Ireland diversify our markets with new, global partners.
The Irish Government welcomed last week's announcement by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the conclusion of an EU-India trade deal as part of the 16th EU-India Summit in New Delhi. This is the largest trade deal ever concluded by either side.
The elimination or reduction in tariffs over the next 10 years covers 96.6% of EU goods exports to India. As a result, the European Commission forecasts that the deal will double EU goods exports to India by 2032.
The deal will grant EU and Irish businesses access to the world’s most populous country of 1.45 billion people and fastest growing large economy. This is especially important in the context of the fragmented trading environment we find ourselves in and will hedge against the geopolitical challenges we face.
Crucially, this agreement will see improved market access for Irish and EU exporters with lower or eliminated tariffs in a broad range of sectors including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, medical devices and technology as well as machinery and equipment. These sectors are of the utmost strategic importance for our economy and the vast majority of industrial products will ultimately be subject to full tariff elimination.
We also welcome the significant reduction in tariffs on spirits, including Irish whiskey. This will give our whiskey producers a major boost and create new opportunities to grow sales in one of the most dynamic consumer markets in the world. There are wider benefits for the agrifood sector for sheep meat and some pork products, while our most sensitive sectors are excluded from the Agreement.
In addition to tariff reduction, there will also be a simplification of customs procedures, enhanced transparency and dedicated contact points put in place to provide SMEs with relevant information on the deal.
Ireland has a strong presence in India through our Embassy in New Delhi and Consulate General in Mumbai, and our Team Ireland approach will help Irish businesses take full advantage of the opportunities this deal presents.
