India and Qatar Push to Finalise Terms of Reference for Trade Deal in October

India is expected to finalise the terms of reference (ToR) for a free trade agreement (FTA) with Qatar in the first week of October 2025. According to news reports, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is expected to visit Doha in October 2025 to finalise the process. The ToR will outline the scope and procedures of the proposed pact.

February Agreement

The idea of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement was first discussed in February 2025 during the visit of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to India. At that time, both sides agreed to double bilateral trade to $28 billion by 2030.

Current Trade Figures

Qatar accounted for 1.22% of India’s total trade in FY25. India exported goods worth $1.68 billion to Qatar, while imports reached $12.47 billion. Overall, bilateral trade was valued at $14.14 billion, with a heavy tilt in favour of Qatar.

Key Imports from Qatar

Petroleum products dominate Qatar’s exports to India. Of the $14.14 billion import bill, around $11.08 billion came from natural gas and other petroleum products. India also imports liquified petroleum gas (LPG), organic chemicals, plastics, aluminium articles, and fertilisers from Qatar.

Investment Commitments

Qatar had earlier committed to invest $10 billion in India and agreed to open a local office of the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). These announcements were made during the state visit of the Emir in February 2025.

India’s Other Trade Talks

As per news reports, India is also advancing negotiations with several partners. The 13th round of India-EU FTA talks began this week, with both sides aiming for a deal by year-end. Discussions with Oman and New Zealand are progressing, while talks are open with Australia, Chile, Peru, and the United States.

Read more: India-Israel Bilateral Investment Treaty Signed To Boost Trade Ties!

Conclusion

India and Qatar are expected to finalise the ToR for a free trade agreement in October 2025. This will mark the formal start of negotiations between the two countries.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.