India to hold trade deal talks with European nations

India's trade minister will hold talks in the UK on a free trade deal with Britain and meet ministers from the European Free Trade Association from July 10 to 11, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said on Sunday.

Trade minister Piyush Goyal will meet with his UK counterpart, Kemi Badenoch, and representatives from British industry, the ministry said.

The talks offer an opportunity to discuss the main priorities of a free trade agreement with a focus on addressing trade barriers, promoting investments, and fostering greater cooperation in various areas, it said.

Differences emerged between India and the UK on some tariff lines and investment protection rules, including disagreement over concessions on duties levied by India on car and liquor imports.

Goyal will also meet ministers and officials from the European Free Trade Association, which comprises Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, to assess progress toward reaching a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement with them.