ThePrint ThePrintPOD: India-EU FTA & Turkey, Jamaat's rise in Bangladesh & why Iranian regime has run its course| Ep39
Jan 31, 2026
Breakdown of why the India-EU FTA finally materialized and which sectors stand to gain. Discussion of investment, defence ties and the SAFE fund as drivers of industrial opportunities. Analysis of Turkey’s customs union dynamics and what India should watch. Preview of Bangladesh’s election risks and the rise of Jamaat. Assessment of Iran’s protests, economic collapse and regime prospects.
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Why The India-EU Deal Arrived In 2026
- The India-EU FTA concluded now because of geopolitical shocks, supply-chain diversification and mutual commercial interests.
- The deal reduces tariffs widely and aims to unlock European investment, not just raise export numbers.
Tariff Cuts Favor Jobs And Investment
- The FTA cuts Indian tariffs on many EU goods and removes EU tariffs on most Indian exports, favoring labour-intensive sectors.
- The true test is whether the deal spurs European investment into Indian manufacturing via the bilateral investment treaty.
Missing Labor And Environmental Standards
- The agreement omits strong EU-style labour and environmental standards, creating criticism in Europe.
- CBAM applies regardless, so SMEs fear double costs even if the FTA lacks detailed environmental measures.