La Cámara de Comercio de Madrid held a technical seminar on business opportunities on April 16, 2026 India following the agreement with Unión EuropeaThe event brought together institutional leaders to facilitate the internationalization of Madrid-based companies in this strategic, high-growth market.
A new era in trade relations between India and Unión Europea
The day, titled “India–European Union: a new era of opportunities for business”, has served as a stage to present the lines of action derived from the historic Free trade agreement achieved in 2026. This strategic milestone, the result of almost two decades of negotiation, creates a joint market of approximately 2.000 million people and contemplates the reduction or elimination of tariffs in more than 96% of bilateral trade.
Miguel Bufalá, International Coordinator of the Cámara de MadridDuring the meeting, he emphasized the importance of the current moment: «Estamos hablando de un mercado de más de 1.400 millones de personas con un crecimiento sostenido y estable políticamente, algo que hoy en día es importantísimo para la seguridad jurídica en nuestras relaciones económicas y comerciales». For BufaláThe country represents not only a final destination, but also a Strategic Hub for the entire area Asia.
India as an industrial and technological alternative to China
The economic dynamism of the Asian giant already positions it as the world's fourth largest economy, with the firm objective of achieving a GDP of 5 trillions of dollars. In this context, Iñaki SotoDirector of Indversis Management ConsultingHe emphasized the specific weight that the country has gained on the international stage: «Probablemente uno de los mayores éxitos que ha tenido India en los últimos años ha sido saber navegar en aguas revueltas. Es ya una economía consolidada y a punto de ser la tercera del mundo».
According to SotoThe country aspires to become the "factory of the world", presenting itself as a royal alternative a ChinaThis ambition requires a massive technology transfer that will come primarily from Europe, especially benefited by the preferential tariffs compared to competitors such as Estados Unidos o Japón.
Strategic sectors and investment figures
The expansion of the middle class and strong government investment are opening up unprecedented business opportunities for Spanish companies in areas such as:
- Agri-food: Opportunities in food processing, irrigation systems and fertilizers.
- Infrastructures: Major projects in airports, ports, subway lines and railways.
- Energy: Energy transition projects and renewable energy.
- Technology and Automotive: Digitization of processes and industrial innovation.
The following details the macroeconomic figures and key indicators analyzed during the day:
| Macroeconomic Concept | Data / Forecast |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 1.450 billion inhabitants (18% of the world's population) |
| GDP Growth Forecast (2025-2026) | 7,4% per year |
| Bilateral Trade UE India | > 180.000 million euros |
| Tariff Reduction (2026 Agreement) | Over 96% of trade |
| Medium-term economic objective | 5 trillion dollars (USD) |
Legal framework and entry strategies
Despite the immense opportunities, experts agree that the Indian market is heavily regulatedThe event included the participation of Aditya Patni y Ayush A Mehrotrapartners at the prestigious firm Khaitan & Co., who detailed the regulations necessary to operate successfully. Iñaki Soto warned that «es esencial empezar a trabajar ahora para que, cuando el acuerdo entre en vigor a comienzos del año que viene, las empresas estén listas».
The opening of the institutional event was led by Eva Serrano, vice president of the Cámara de Madrid, and Shri Jayant N. Khobragade, ambassador of India en Españawho agreed that the market diversification This is the current priority for Madrid's business community.
Key points and frequently asked questions about the market India
What real impact will the Free Trade Agreement have?
The agreement eliminates or reduces tariffs on more than 96% of transactions, which could double European exports to India in the coming years, facilitating access to previously protected sectors.
Why is it considered India an alternative to China?
Because of its demographic scale, political stability and its ambition to become the main global manufacturing center, supported by a young workforce and GDP growth above 7%.
When is the ideal time for Spanish companies to begin their entry?
Immediately. The agreement is expected to be ratified and enter into full force between January and February 2027, so companies must now carry out the necessary regulatory and market studies.
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