India and the European Union will commence their tenth round of negotiations for a proposed free trade agreement in Brussels. Key issues such as agricultural tariffs, auto import duties, and regulatory barriers will be the focus,

Its their first commitment to a deadline on talks that have been going for years, as they look to soften the effect of tariff increases from the US.

In agriculture, the EU is pushing for India to cut tariffs on cheese and skimmed milk powder while it imposes high duties and very tough standards. Even if tariffs are reduced, the EU’s regulatory framework will remain a major hurdle for Indian farmers and food producers.

India-EU FTA talks are expected to focus on resolving remaining issues so that the agreement can be finalised by the end of this year.

India and the EU will hold the 10th round of negotiations for a free trade agreement, aiming to finalize the deal by year-end. Key sticking points include agricultural tariffs, automobile duties, and services trade.

US President Donald Trump has pledged to impose so-called reciprocal tariffs on imports from foes and allies alike from April 2, matching their levies to redress any perceived trade barriers for American companies.

Piyush Goyal, India’s commerce minister, was in Washington last week for discussions on a bilateral trade agreement meant to fend off Trump’s threat last month of reciprocal tariffs. While Indian officials say discussions are “advancing”,

Donald Trump on Friday said India agreed to cut tariffs significantly as he is exposing New Delhi for imposing ‘massive tariffs’ on US imports.

US President Donald Trump’s threats to hike tariffs isn’t all bad news for India’s economy since it’s driving the government to lower trade barriers, which will spur competition and growth.