India and Israel Complete Second Round of Free Trade Agreement Talks

India and Israel concluded the second round of negotiations on a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) at the Ministry of Commerce building in New Delhi. The four‑day talks, held from 20 to 23 July, covered trade in goods and services, rules of origin, technical barriers, intellectual‑property rights, customs procedures and broader economic cooperation. Both sides described the dialogue as constructive and forward‑looking.

Indian senior trade official Ajay Bhadhu and Israeli senior negotiator Yifat Elon Perel led their respective delegations. Israel’s ambassador to India, Ruwen Azar, called the outcome “an important step towards a mutually beneficial agreement.” The ministries noted that bilateral merchandise trade in FY 2025‑26 was about $3.93 billion and that the FTA aims to deepen trade, investment and economic integration.

The participants reaffirmed commitment to finalising a balanced, comprehensive and mutually advantageous FTA that will strengthen bilateral economic ties.