Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 13 The proposed India-EU free trade agreement could open new avenues for Indian startups to expand into European markets, speakers at a Huddle Global 2026 session said.
Representatives of Italy, Finland, Switzerland and Wales outlined possible collaboration with Indian companies, particularly in technology, research and medical technology, according to a statement on Friday.
Italian Consul General Walter Ferrera said Indian startups stood to benefit significantly once India and the EU signed the FTA, which he expected “in the coming days”. Describing Italy as an industrial powerhouse, he invited Indian technology companies to explore partnerships with Italian businesses and called the country a gateway to the wider European market.
Finnish Consul General Petra Theman highlighted her country’s focus on innovation and technology, which she linked to its global reputation for quality of life, the statement said. Citing Nokia as a Finnish company that had grown into a global player, she said Finland was keen to collaborate with Indian enterprises and startups.
Swiss Consul General Angela Honegger said that although Switzerland was not an EU member, it already had a free trade agreement with India.
She highlighted the strong academic and research ties between the two countries and cited Swissnex, Switzerland’s platform for international collaboration in science, education and innovation. Research to combat hospital-acquired superbugs was one area of potential cooperation, she said.
Eoghan O’Regan, representative of the Welsh Government in India, said medical technology was one of Wales’ key sectors, with scope for further collaboration with Indian companies.
He said the Welsh Government was open to facilitating partnerships between Indian startups and Welsh firms, and that such tie-ups could also make Wales an attractive base for businesses seeking access to the UK market.
The session was moderated by Venu Rajamani, former Indian Ambassador to the Netherlands, the statement said.
The eighth edition of Huddle Global 2026, organised by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), is being held at The Leela Raviz Kovalam in Thiruvananthapuram from November 12 to 14.
(PTI News)
