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EU needs deals with India, others to reduce US dependency, von der Leyen says

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on September 18, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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EU needs deals with India, others to reduce US dependency, von der Leyen says
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BERLIN (Reuters) -The European Union must look to trade deals with countries like India to reduce dependencies, with higher U.S. import tariffs pushing the bloc to diversity its ties, European

EU Aims to Strengthen Trade with India to Decrease US Reliance

BERLIN (Reuters) -The European Union must look to trade deals with countries like India to reduce dependencies, with higher U.S. import tariffs pushing the bloc to diversity its ties, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Thursday.

"We want to make a deal with India this year," von der Leyen said at a conference with German business leaders, adding that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured her of his commitment to this goal in a phone call on Wednesday.

"We are in talks with South Africa, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates and others," she added.

(Reporting by Christian Kraemer and Rachel More, Editing by Madeline Chambers)

Key Takeaways

  • EU seeks trade deals with India to reduce US reliance.
  • Ursula von der Leyen emphasizes diversification of trade ties.
  • Talks are ongoing with South Africa, Malaysia, and UAE.
  • Higher US tariffs prompt EU to explore new partnerships.
  • Indian PM Modi shows commitment to EU trade agreements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the EU's goal regarding trade with India?
The EU aims to finalize a trade deal with India this year to reduce dependencies, particularly in light of higher U.S. import tariffs.
Which countries is the EU in talks with for trade deals?
The EU is currently in discussions with South Africa, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, and others to diversify its trade relationships.
Who assured the EU of India's commitment to a trade deal?
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen of his commitment to establishing a trade deal this year.

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