India–Australia Trade Pact Completes Four Years, Boosts Bilateral Trade and Market Access

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-India–Australia Trade Reaches USD 24.1 Billion in 2024–25 Amid Strong Export Growth

-Australia Grants 100% Tariff Line Access to India Under ECTA; Zero Duty on All Exports from 2026

New Delhi : The India–Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA) marked four years since its signing on April 2, 2022, underscoring a significant phase in the growing economic partnership between India and Australia.

Over the past four years, the agreement has played a crucial role in boosting trade, strengthening industry linkages, and opening new avenues for businesses and employment in both nations. Bilateral economic engagement has expanded steadily, supported by improved market access and reduced trade barriers.

India’s exports to Australia have more than doubled—from USD 4 billion in FY 2020–21 to USD 8.5 billion in FY 2024–25. Total bilateral trade reached USD 24.1 billion in 2024–25, with Indian exports registering an 8% growth over the previous year. In FY 2025–26 (up to February), total trade between the two countries stood at USD 19.3 billion.

Under the agreement, India has provided preferential market access on over 70% of its tariff lines, covering more than 90% of trade value. In contrast, Australia has extended preferential access on 100% of its tariff lines for Indian imports. Notably, from January 1, 2026, all Indian exports to Australia are eligible for zero-duty access.

The agreement has delivered broad-based sectoral gains, particularly in textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and agricultural products. It has also facilitated India’s access to key raw materials such as base metals, raw cotton, fertilisers, and pulses—supporting domestic manufacturing and strengthening supply chains.

A key development in bilateral cooperation was the signing of a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on organic products on September 24, 2025. This arrangement enables smoother trade by recognising each country’s certification systems, reducing compliance costs and enhancing transparency in organic trade.

The Ind-Aus ECTA has emerged as a cornerstone of India-Australia economic ties, benefiting businesses, MSMEs, and consumers alike. Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding trade, deepening investment partnerships, and advancing their shared goal of strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.

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