This Week in Mining — Brussels (#29, 2026)
Commission submits EU-India FTA to Council; Council to debate industry files; no new mining-specific EU legislation.
September 07, 2026 to September 13, 2026
Commission submits EU-India FTA to Council; Council to debate industry files; no new mining-specific EU legislation.
📋 In This Week's Newsletter
• 🇪🇺 European Commission
• 🤝 EU Council
European Commission
Commission submits EU-India Free Trade Agreement to Council for signature
On 10 September 2026, the European Commission presented its proposals to the Council for the signature and conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the European Union and India. The agreement, once ratified, will become the largest bilateral trade deal for both parties, covering over €180 billion in annual trade in goods and services. The FTA includes provisions to eliminate or reduce tariffs on 96% of EU goods exports to India, which is expected to generate annual savings of around €4 billion in duties for European products. According to the Commission, the deal aims to boost market access and ensure predictable rules for trade and investment. Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič, noted that the proposal follows a fast-track procedure to expedite implementation. The Commission is now seeking Council's approval for signature, after which European Parliament consent will be required before the agreement enters into force. The Indian government is conducting its own ratification process in parallel.
EU Council
Competitiveness Council to discuss industrial policy and merger control
The Competitiveness Council, scheduled for 24 September 2026, will feature debates among internal market and industry ministers on the chips act 2.0 and revision of EU merger control guidelines. Ministers will also be updated on legislative proposals including the industrial accelerator act, the 28th regime, and the European competitiveness fund.
Upcoming informal meeting of transport ministers
Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council ministers are set to meet informally on 20 September 2026.
