Italy Aims to Boost Trade with India by €6 Billion, Deputy PM Tajani Says

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Italy's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, announced plans to increase trade with India by €6 billion, targeting €20 billion by 2029. During his upcoming visit to New Delhi, Tajani will focus on boosting trade and investments, particularly in the energy, data centres, and hospitality sectors. Tajani expressed confidence in the success of the free trade agreement (FTA) between the European Union and India, stating that it is 'too much at stake to miss this opportunity.' The FTA is expected to encourage more Italian companies to invest in India, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Italy and India are also working on a joint strategic action plan, which identifies 10 areas of common interest, including innovation, trade, and security. The two countries have made significant progress in recent months, with Italy increasing its investments in India by €500 million in the first half of 2025. In the defense sector, Italy and India are working on a roadmap for co-production and co-development of defense platforms and equipment. The two countries are also increasing joint exercises in the Indian Ocean and enhancing their dialogue on maritime security. Tajani will also discuss the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project, which aims to foster growth and shared economic opportunities in the region. Italy is a strong proponent of the project, which can complement its shared effort for a closer collaboration with Africa. During his visit, Tajani will also highlight Italy's commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, where it shares a common view with India on a free, open, and inclusive region. The two countries are working together on several initiatives, including a high-speed digital connection between Genova and Mumbai and a fast-track procedure corridor between their ports. Italy's experience with Indian workers has been positive, with many Indians contributing to the Italian economy and society. The two countries have signed a migration and mobility agreement, which aims to enhance exchange of talents and reap the benefits of complementarities between the two economies and labour markets.