Spain and India lay the foundations to strengthen their agri-food cooperation in the "Dual Year 2026"

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The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of España, Luis Planas, has held a strategic meeting with the ambassador of the India, Jayant Namdeorao KhobragadeThe meeting, held within the framework of Dual Year 2026Its main objective is to strengthen bilateral agri-food cooperation and open new business opportunities for Spanish companies.

 

This meeting comes at a key moment, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Dual Year initiative España India It is based on three fundamental pillars: culture as a vehicle for dialogue, the promotion of tourism, and cooperation in the technological field.

 

A common agenda for the agri-food sector

 

During the meeting, both parties consolidated a work agenda focused on the agri-food sector. Topics discussed included an analysis of the current state of trade relations, the importance of joint participation in international trade fairs, and a formal invitation to the Indian delegation to attend the next edition of a key event on the international calendar.

 

Specifically, the minister Planas extended an invitation to the ambassador for the XII Ibero-American Conference on Agriculture and Fisheries, a high-level forum that will serve to strengthen ties and explore synergies.

 

Details of the key event mentioned in the meeting.

Event	Dates	Location
XII Ibero-American Conference on Agriculture and Fisheries	24 and 25 September 2026	Córdoba, España

 

Export opportunities and the EU-India agreement

 

The meeting highlights the growing business potential for Spanish companies in the Indian market. Currently, one of their flagship products is... olive oilwhich presents great growth potential. However, the opportunities extend to a wide range of high value-added Spanish agri-food products.

 

These prospects are significantly reinforced by the ongoing negotiations for a Free trade agreement between Unión Europea and IndiaAccording to analysts consulted by Empresa ExteriorThe agreement "promises to eliminate or substantially reduce tariffs and customs duties on numerous food products, which would provide a decisive competitive boost for Spanish exporters against competitors from other trade blocs."

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about agri-food trade with India

 

What direct impact does this meeting have on a Spanish exporting company?

This meeting represents high-level institutional support that can facilitate future trade negotiations and the opening of new channels. For an exporting company, it is a positive sign indicating a favorable political environment for expediting the entry and consolidation of Spanish products in the Indian market, especially in the agri-food sector.

 

What is the main catalyst for export growth to India?

The main catalyst in the medium term is the signing of the free trade agreement between the Unión Europea and IndiaReducing or eliminating tariffs will allow products such as Spanish olive oil, wine, and preserves to become more price-competitive, reaching a rapidly expanding Indian middle class with a growing interest in quality European products.

 

Besides olive oil, what other Spanish products have potential in India?

Foreign trade experts point out that, in addition to olive oil, there is great potential for products such as table olives, processed meat products (subject to overcoming non-tariff barriers and obtaining specific certifications), wine, and seafood. Success will depend on adapting to local consumer tastes and a well-defined marketing strategy.