Importing from India: growth opportunities, trends, and local support

India has long been a key player in global trade, and with recent economic developments, the country is becoming even more attractive for importers. In this blog, we take a closer look at the current state of the Indian economy, the trends shaping the trade landscape, and the opportunities arising from the new free trade agreement with the EU. We also show how Berkman can support you with product sourcing and quality control.

Economic developments and investments

India is growing rapidly. With an expected economic growth of 6.5% in 2025 and a fast-expanding middle class, the country is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy. Investments in infrastructure, digitisation, and manufacturing make India an appealing trade partner for European businesses.

Trends transforming the trade landscape

• Digitisation of supply chains: India is investing heavily in digital infrastructure for e-commerce and payment systems, leading to faster and more transparent trade processes;
• Sustainability: India is committed to sustainability and aims to become a global leader in the production, use, and export of green hydrogen;
• Export boost: Through subsidies tied to increased production, the government is stimulating both domestic manufacturing and exports from India.

Promising sectors for import from India

• Electronics and IT services: India’s strong tech sector and talent pool offer opportunities for importing hardware and digital solutions;
• Textiles and apparel: Sustainably produced clothing from India aligns with the growing demand for responsible fashion in Europe;
• Food products and spices: The export of authentic and organic products such as tea, spices, and oils continues to grow.

New Free Trade Agreement between the EU and India

India and the EU are currently negotiating a renewed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), expected by the end of 2025. This agreement will cover not only trade but also technological cooperation, sustainability, and geopolitical collaboration.

A key component is the mutual reduction of import tariffs. India is likely to lower tariffs on European products such as cars and wine, while the EU will offer greater market access for Indian textiles, apparel, and leather goods. Bilateral trade already reached €120 billion in 2024 – the new FTA is set to boost this even further.

Local sourcing and quality control via Berkman

With two offices in India (Mumbai and New Delhi), Berkman offers direct support for sourcing and quality control. Our local colleagues know the market, speak the language, and carry out on-site inspections. This ensures your products meet your standards before they are shipped.

Want to learn more about importing from India?

Curious how your business can benefit from the opportunities in India? Get in touch with us. We’re happy to think along with you and show how our local presence can strengthen your import process.

Contact