led the closing ceremony of the ninth round of negotiations between Peru and India aimed at achieving a trade agreement.
At this event, the Peruvian government official highlighted that the exchange of goods between both countries reached a record figure of US$5.8 billion in 2024.
"I am confident that, with the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), this figure will increase significantly in the coming years," she stated.
The official ceremony was held at the Andean Community headquarters in Lima's San Isidro district.
Within this framework, the Peruvian minister emphasized that the negotiation of this trade agreement is highly important, as it opens up a market with enormous potential for mining and agricultural products.
"There is great interest and expectation in agricultural products, particularly Andean grains and legumes. At this time, even without the trade agreement, we are already exporting blueberries and natural colorants," Mera explained.
Likewise, the Cabinet member indicated that the bilateral negotiations reaffirm both countries' commitment to an international rules-based system that fosters transparency, stability, and predictability. These qualities are highly necessary, as well as sought after by investors and exporters.
It is worth noting that India is currently Peru's second-largest trading partner in Asia and its fourth worldwide.
Between January and September 2025, Peruvian exports to this market totaled US$3.955 billion, a 31.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Among the main exported products are gold, copper, tin, and cacao beans.
"Peru is a country rich in minerals (…) it can also be an important food supplier. Therefore, we are aiming to conclude a free trade agreement as soon as possible," said Indian Ambassador to Peru, Vishvas Sapkal.
The closing of the ninth negotiations round was attended by Deputy Trade Minister Cesar Llona; Andean Community Secretary General Gonzalo Gutierrez; International Trade Negotiations Director General Jose Luis Castillo; plus Asia, Oceania, and Africa Department Director and Chief Negotiator Gerardo Meza.
Likewise, the ceremony was attended by India's Chief Negotiator, Vimal Anand, as well as negotiators from both countries.
Data
The negotiations between Peru and India have covered chapters such as Trade in Goods, Trade in Services, Movement of People, Rules of Origin, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, Technical Barriers to Trade, Customs Procedures, and Trade Facilitation.
They have also included Initial Provisions and General Definitions, Legal and Institutional Matters, Final Provisions, General and Security Exceptions, Dispute Settlement, Trade Defense, and Cooperation.