Dublin: The landmark India–EU free trade agreement is expected to bring significant benefits for Indians living in Ireland, particularly those working in health, IT and financial services, while also opening up fresh opportunities in agriculture, food exports and allied sectors.
With the removal of tariffs under the new agreement, Irish mutton exports to India will become duty-free, creating new prospects for Irish goat and sheep farmers as well as members of the Indian diaspora interested in entering the agricultural sector. Many Indians in Ireland have prior experience in farming, and even part-time participation in agriculture could contribute meaningfully to the Irish economy at a time when younger generations are moving away from farming and farmland.
Until now, a 33% tariff on mutton exports effectively excluded Irish producers from the Indian market, one of the world’s largest consumers of sheep meat. Ireland is the fourth-largest exporter of mutton globally and the second-largest in Europe, yet exports to India were negligible due to the high tariff barrier. The agreement is expected to transform this situation by opening access to a vast new market.
Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh described the agreement as a breakthrough for Irish sheep farmers, noting that this is the first time a major market such as India has been opened to Irish mutton. She said the deal strengthens Ireland’s global trading position and helps diversify its export base.
Walsh also stressed the need for swift action to capitalise on the agreement, calling for a coordinated effort to develop distribution channels, assist producers in navigating India’s regulatory and food safety requirements, and promote the quality and reputation of Irish agri-food products in the Indian market. She added that targeted campaigns are needed to introduce Indian consumers to Irish mutton, whiskey and other premium exports.
Beyond agriculture, the deal is also a major boost for the Irish drinks industry. Duties on spirits will be reduced from 150% to 40%, providing strong support for Irish whiskey producers and sustaining jobs and rural communities. At the same time, sensitive European agricultural sectors, including beef, have been excluded from the agreement, addressing concerns among EU farmers.
Irish Samachar English News
Kindly click to join WhatsApp group chat to get important news and breaking news from Irish Samachar