Home / Business and Economy / India-Australia Pact: Beyond Trade?
India-Australia Pact: Beyond Trade?
25 Sep
Summary
- India and Australia are negotiating a broader economic pact and investment treaty.
- Bilateral trade in goods and services reached $50.2 billion in 2025.
- Cooperation targets critical minerals, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
India and Australia are actively pursuing a more comprehensive economic partnership, moving beyond their current trade agreement. Discussions are progressing on a broader Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and a dedicated Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT).
These negotiations are set to deepen collaboration in key sectors such as critical minerals, manufacturing, and renewable energy technologies. The objective is to create a balanced and equitable economic relationship between the two complementary economies.
Bilateral trade in goods and services between India and Australia amounted to $50.2 billion in 2025. Currently, Australia's exports to India were valued at approximately $32 billion in FY2024-25, while imports from India stood at around $18 billion.
Furthermore, discussions are underway to enhance mutual recognition for accounting professionals, facilitating easier movement and work opportunities. The countries are also exploring dual-degree programs for students to study in both nations.
Australia's investment in India was valued at $26.8 billion at the end of 2025, with India's investment in Australia reaching $45.3 billion during the same period. The proposed CECA and BIT aim to bolster this investment and cooperation.
