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| India–EFTA Free Trade Agreement set to bring $100 billion investment and 1 million jobs from October 2025. |
India has officially locked in one of its biggest trade wins. The India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), signed in March 2024, will finally come into effect from October 1, 2025.
The four EFTA countries—Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein—have agreed to bring in USD 100 billion investment over 15 years into India, creating 1 million direct jobs.
Key Highlights of the India–EFTA FTA
Effective Date: October 1, 2025
Investment Commitment: USD 100 billion (USD 50B in first 10 years, USD 50B in next 5 years)
Jobs Created: 1 million direct jobs in India
Countries Involved: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein
Unique Feature: Legally binding sustainability clause – first for any Indian FTA
How India Will Benefit
1. Massive Job Creation – With 1 million direct jobs expected, sectors like manufacturing, technology, finance, pharma, and green energy will see a boom.
2. FDI Boost – $100 billion FDI will make India a top investment hub in Asia.
3. Export Growth – Indian businesses gain access to high-value markets in Switzerland and Norway.
4. Skill Development – Collaboration with European industries will upskill India’s workforce.
5. Sustainability Gains – A focus on clean energy, climate action, and responsible trade.
Why the India–EFTA FTA Matters
India gets preferential access to advanced European markets.
Strengthens India’s trade diversification strategy beyond the US, EU, and China.
First-ever binding investment guarantee in an FTA with India.
Strengthens ties with Switzerland, a global financial hub.
India–EFTA FTA at a Glance
Aspect Details
Total Investment USD 100 Billion over 15 years
Jobs Created 1 Million direct jobs
FTA Effective Date October 1, 2025
Partner Countries Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein
Focus Areas Pharma, finance, green tech, IT, manufacturing
Expert Views
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal called this a “game-changing FTA” that will open doors for India’s economy, while Swiss officials confirmed that the deal is a win-win for both sides.
FAQs
1. What is the India–EFTA FTA?
It is a free trade and economic partnership agreement between India and four European countries: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
2. When will the India–EFTA FTA come into force?
It will take effect from October 1, 2025.
3. How much investment is expected from the deal?
EFTA countries have committed to USD 100 billion in investment over 15 years.
4. How many jobs will this deal create?
The agreement is expected to generate 1 million direct jobs in India.
5. Which sectors will benefit the most?
Key sectors: IT, pharma, finance, green technology, and manufacturing.
Final Word
The India–EFTA FTA is more than just a trade deal—it’s a $100 billion opportunity to reshape India’s economic future. With 1 million jobs on the horizon, this agreement marks a major win for India’s growth story.
👉 Stay tuned with The Bharat Brief for the latest updates on India’s trade, economy, and global partnerships.
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