India Seeks Easier SPS, TBT Norms in EAEU Trade Deal Talks

India is working to simplify compliance requirements under sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures and technical barriers to trade (TBT) in its proposed trade pact with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). These measures often act as non-tariff barriers, increasing costs and delaying shipments for exporters.

The initiative is aimed at making Indian exports more competitive in the EAEU market. The development comes as negotiations for the agreement continue between both sides.

Progress In India-EAEU Trade Negotiations

India and the EAEU signed the terms of reference for a free trade agreement on August 20, 2025. The first round of negotiations was held in November 2025, marking the beginning of formal discussions.

The agreement is expected to cover around 15 chapters focused on goods, customs facilitation and related areas. The second round of negotiations is scheduled to take place later in June 2026 in Moscow.

Understanding SPS And TBT Barriers

SPS measures are regulations designed to protect human, animal and plant health in international trade. These include checks such as limits on pesticide residues, restrictions on contaminated seafood, and animal disease-related import controls.

TBT measures, on the other hand, include product standards, labelling rules, packaging norms and quality certifications. Both categories can create procedural complexities that exporters must comply with before entering foreign markets.

Impact On Indian Exporters

Complex SPS and TBT requirements often increase compliance costs and extend shipment timelines for exporters. Products such as marine goods, agricultural commodities and processed foods are particularly affected by these regulations.

Simplifying these norms is expected to reduce transaction costs and improve efficiency in trade flows. It may also enable exporters to meet regulatory requirements in a more streamlined manner.

Trade Relations with EAEU Countries

The EAEU consists of 5 member countries, including Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Russia remains India’s largest trading partner within the bloc, with bilateral trade valued at $68.72 billion in FY25.

India’s exports to Russia stood at $4.88 billion, while imports reached $63.84 billion, largely driven by crude oil purchases. Trade with other EAEU nations remained comparatively smaller, with individual bilateral trade values below $400 million.

Read More: India Records 13.59% Growth in Total Exports During April 2026.

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Conclusion

India’s focus on easing SPS and TBT compliance highlights its strategy to address non-tariff barriers in international trade agreements. By simplifying regulatory processes, the country aims to improve export competitiveness in the EAEU region.

Ongoing negotiations indicate continued efforts to strengthen trade relations with member countries. The proposed measures may contribute to more efficient trade operations and broader market access.

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