CTA APPARELS INDIA–EFTA TRADE AND ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT TEPA OCTOBER 1 2025 EUROPEAN BLOC TARIFF REDUCTIONS DUTY-FREE ACCESS INVESTMENTS 100 BILLION DOLLARS 1 MILLION JOBS APPAREL SECTOR TEXTILE SECTOR EXPORT GROWTH SUSTAINABLE PR NATIONAL
NEW DELHI, INDIA
By IFAB MEDIA - NEWS BUREAU - September 30, 2025 | 324 2 minutes read
CTA Apparels has welcomed the launch of the India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), set to come into force on October 1, 2025. As India’s first trade agreement with a European bloc, this milestone marks a significant step forward in deepening economic integration with Europe.
The agreement provides for substantial tariff reductions, duty-free access on 99% of goods, and a commitment of $100 billion in investments from EFTA nations over the next 15 years. It is expected to generate 1 million direct jobs in India, establishing a new benchmark by linking market access with long-term investment.
For the apparel and textile sector, TEPA is expected to create unprecedented opportunities for export growth, sustainable production partnerships, and entry into premium European markets. CTA Apparels views this development as a catalyst for innovation, competitiveness, and global leadership in the fashion and textile supply chain.
Dr. Mukesh Kansal, Chairman, CTA Apparels, said: "The India–EFTA trade agreement is a landmark step that combines global opportunity with domestic advancement. For the apparel and textile industry, it opens pathways to expand exports, adopt sustainable practices, and engage more deeply with Europe’s high-value markets. At CTA Apparels, we believe this agreement will strengthen India’s role as a trusted partner in global fashion and textiles, while creating value for our economy, workforce, and environment."