Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that he, along with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, will soon visit Brussels for the India–EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) talks. He noted that the engagement will build on the recently concluded India–EU free trade agreement and help ease its implementation, making it more effective and practical for both sides.

Goyal explained that the objective of the TTC meeting with the European Commission is to complement the FTA, resolve operational challenges, and ensure smoother execution so that both countries can fully benefit from the agreement. On other trade negotiations, he said discussions on the proposed India–Canada FTA are advancing well, with an Indian negotiating team set to travel next week. He expressed optimism that the agreement could be finalised within six months.

Regarding talks with Peru, Goyal said a deal is unlikely in the near term due to India’s concerns over granting wider market access for certain goods. On Israel, he added that negotiations are ongoing despite tensions in West Asia, though progress has slowed, and may accelerate once regional conditions stabilise.

Speaking at the Toy Biz International B2B Expo 2026, Goyal announced that the government will set up modern testing facilities in key toy manufacturing hubs to enhance quality standards and support exports. He reaffirmed that the Quality Control Order (QCO) for toys will remain in place, stressing that it protects domestic manufacturers from unfair imports. He also highlighted that India’s toy market is valued at around ₹18,000 crore, with imports accounting for ₹2,500–3,000 crore, while the majority is produced domestically. He urged industry players not to become complacent despite improvements in quality standards.

Goyal encouraged toy manufacturers to adopt advanced technologies such as computer-aided design and manufacturing to improve productivity and product quality. He also suggested establishing skill development centres, collaborating with ITIs, and training workers in best manufacturing practices.

He proposed setting up a public-private partnership-based centre of excellence focused on design, testing, and brand development. He urged exporters to actively leverage India’s nine FTAs covering 38 countries by expanding global outreach through trade delegations, exhibitions, and distribution networks. He said the government will continue supporting exporters under the Export Promotion Mission, including initial assistance for overseas warehousing.