Kochi, Jan 29 (UNI) The India–European union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) marks a historic and timely breakthrough in India’s global trade engagement, reflecting the country’s growing economic stature and proactive diplomacy in a rapidly evolving international order, Spices Board India Chairperson Adv. Sangeetha Viswanathan has said.
Viswanathan said the agreement represents a major milestone in India’s external trade relations and comes at a strategically crucial moment, when global supply chains are being redefined and trusted trade partnerships are gaining renewed importance.
The pact, she noted, reinforces India’s position as a dependable, competitive, and forward-looking trading partner, while opening new horizons for Indian exports across sectors.
From the perspective of the Spices Board of India, the agreement holds exceptional significance, as the European union continues to be one of the most discerning and high-value destinations for Indian spices.
Enhanced market access, deeper regulatory cooperation, and greater predictability under the FTA are expected to provide a major boost to spice exports, improve value realisation for exporters, and further consolidate India’s leadership in quality-centric, sustainable, and traceability-driven trade.
Viswanathan said the agreement also signals a clear shift in global perception towards India, acknowledging the country’s strong compliance systems, transparent governance framework, and sustained export-oriented reforms.
She added that the FTA would generate renewed confidence among exporters, encourage investments in value-added and branded products, and empower farmers and MSMEs across the entire spice value chain.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Spices Board India, she said the institution would work closely with exporters, farmers, and other stakeholders to fully harness the opportunities created by the agreement, while aligning with the broader national vision of expanding India’s export footprint and enhancing the global reputation of Indian spices in the years ahead.
