India broadens PTA with Brazil-led Mercosur amid FTA stall
New Delhi to add agri goods like maize and sugar to 2009 pact; aims to offset US tariffs with South American exports.
By : Himabindu
Update: 2025-10-16 12:27 GMT
Amaravati, October 16, 2025:
India is set to widen its preferential trade agreement with the Mercosur group, comprising Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay by incorporating additional agricultural items such as maize, wheat, and sugar, according to senior government figures.
The move comes as full free trade talks drag on, with the expansion expected to roll out soon to enhance bilateral commerce and counter recent U.S. tariff hikes impacting Indian shipments. The original 2009 arrangement covers over 450 products, offering duty concessions on 80% of lines.
Officials highlighted the urgency to diversify markets, projecting a boost in exports worth billions, while addressing domestic farmer concerns through balanced concessions.