Germany's Merz floats possibility of EU-India trade deal by end of January

[Jose Garcia]

Source: Reuters

AHMEDABAD, India, Jan 12 (Reuters) - German Chancellor Friedrich Merz floated on Monday the possibility that the European Union and India could sign a landmark free trade agreement by the end of January, a move that could reshape global trade ties as protectionism rises and U.S.-India talks remain stalled.

Top EU leaders would travel to India to seal the deal if negotiations wrap up in time, Merz told reporters in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad on Monday after meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"In any case, they will take another major step forward to ensure that this free trade agreement comes into being," Merz said during his first trip to India since becoming chancellor.

European Union officials have yet to comment.

Read more: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/merz-germany-wants-closer-security-cooperation-with-india-reduce-russia-reliance-2026-01-12/?lctg=67e20b8a81092991ea0c50e0

[padah513]

1. Yet another EU alliance

All our allies are looking to make new alliances that don't include us. I guess that's one way to get around the tariffs. Just get all your goods elsewhere. Great for those you alliance with, not so great for those you leave behind. Getting that Humpy Dumpty vibe right now