India Prepares Blueprint with Qatar to Double Trade by 2030
India is taking bold steps to strengthen its economy amid the high burden of US tariffs, which currently stand at 50% on certain Indian exports. To counter potential losses and expand trade, India has turned its attention to the Middle East, especially the Gulf countries, and is now formalizing its free trade strategy with Qatar.
Free Trade Agreement in Progress
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, during his two-day visit to Qatar, announced that India and Qatar will soon finalize the framework for negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Goyal stated that the agreement is expected to be concluded by mid or late 2026.
During discussions with Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Goyal emphasized that the FTA negotiations would accelerate bilateral trade and business, creating new opportunities for both nations.
Trade to Double by 2030
The Commerce Minister outlined that the current bilateral trade of $14 billion could increase to $30 billion by 2030 under the FTA framework. He highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation across sectors such as:
Agriculture and food products
Non-conventional and renewable energy
Data centers and digital infrastructure
Tourism and hospitality
Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
Artificial intelligence and technology
Goyal added, “I see a lot of opportunities and potential here.”
Qatar’s Investment in India
Addressing Qatar’s $10 billion investment commitment, Goyal said that $4–5 billion has already been invested, with another $1–1.5 billion in the final stages. He encouraged Indian organizations like CII and FICCI to facilitate quality investment opportunities in India.
Qatar is a key trading partner within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with bilateral trade surpassing $14.15 billion in 2024–25. The upcoming FTA is expected to further strengthen economic ties and diversify trade between India and Qatar.
