India Poised to Be Europe's Supplier Amid China Concerns

Nik Gugger, President of the Swiss-India Parliamentary Group, asserts India has a significant opportunity to supply Europe amidst concerns over cheap Chinese goods. The newly signed Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement between India and four European nations is expected to boost various sectors, especially education and healthcare.

India could emerge as Europe's key supplier amid rising apprehensions about Chinese products, according to Nik Gugger, the President of the Swiss-India Parliamentary Group. In an interview, Gugger highlighted India's substantial chance to penetrate the European market, particularly at a time when European nations are increasingly wary of the influx of cheap Chinese goods.

'We can say that it is India's chance. The big chance. India can now, with their slogan, Incredible India,' Gugger told ANI. 'There is the chance to show the world that we do not need cheap products from other countries and that we have a free trade agreement with them where we want to work together in high quality.'

European concerns over cheap Chinese products like electric vehicles, solar panels, and wind turbines are well-documented. Gugger, currently in India, also emphasized the significance of the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) signed between India and the European Free Trade Association, comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. 'It's a unique free trade agreement between four countries, opening numerous opportunities for both sides,' he explained.

Addressing the mutual benefits of such agreements, Gugger pointed out sectors like healthcare, steel, and dual education as key areas for potential growth. 'We have good universities, colleges, high schools, and vocational training centers, especially in Switzerland,' he added, underscoring the robust educational collaboration.

The inaugural TEPA event is set to take place in Mumbai this Sunday, a milestone in India-Switzerland bilateral relations. 'Especially the synergy between Switzerland and India because we have a friendship treaty. We are in the 76th year,' Gugger noted, highlighting the longstanding and expanding cooperation between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)