India's recent free trade agreements (FTAs) could significantly boost exports, with shipments to nine partner countries projected to rise from USD 233 billion in 2025 to USD 511 billion by 2030 and further to USD 1 trillion by 2035, according to a study by ASSOCHAM.

India's total trade in 2025, underlining their growing importance. The study also emphasizes the need to monitor global geopolitical developments and economic trends in partner countries to fully assess the gains from these agreements. Experts Highlight Strategic Importance R. M. Joshi, Vice Chancellor, Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), said FTAs remain critical in an increasingly uncertain global trade environment, adding that India must build resilience to navigate shifting trade policies.

He also described the proposed India-EU trade agreement as a significant development, given the scale of engagement with multiple European nations. Industry Calls for Competitiveness Anil K. Agarwal, Past President, ASSOCHAM and President, COSMOS Group, highlighted that recent FTAs can help expand exports, attract investment, and strengthen India's position as a competitive global economy.

He stressed the need for industry to improve productivity, innovation, quality standards, and compliance with global norms. Sectoral Opportunities and Outlook Saurabh Sanyal, Secretary General, ASSOCHAM, noted that sectors such as engineering goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, gems and jewellery, automotive products, and processed foods are well placed to benefit from expanded trade access.

He added that higher exports could support manufacturing growth, employment generation, and foreign exchange earnings. S. P. Sharma, Chief Economist, ASSOCHAM, said that with favourable policies and global trade conditions, exports to FTA partners could increase by over USD 250 billion by 2030, reinforcing India's long-term growth trajectory.