While speaking at the India-Russia Business Forum in Mumbai, Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar said by 2030 India-Russia bilateral trade will cross USD 100 billion.
He said, ‘Our bilateral trade is today at USD 66 billion. This makes the goal of reaching USD 100 billion by 2030 more than realistic. The balance of trade however needs redressal since it is so one-sided. It is imperative that non-tariff barriers and regulatory impediments are speedily addressed for this to happen. The India-Eurasian Economic Union trade-in goods negotiations commenced in March this year. We need to vigorously take it forward’.
The minister outlined ten critical areas of development that signal a promising trajectory for strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations between the two countries. Highlighting the vision set forth by the leaders of India and Russia, Jaishankar underlined opportunities for deeper economic engagement, aiming for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership by 2030. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of accelerating negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty to bolster investor confidence.
Mutual settlement of trade in national currencies has been prioritized amid global financial shifts. Special Rupee Vostro Accounts have been set up as an effective mechanism, and Jaishankar stressed the need for a more balanced trade supported by these currency settlements. The May 2024 bilateral agreement on Authorized Economic Operators between Indian and Russian customs authorities has made a positive impact on trade facilitation and ease of business, as per Jaishankar.
He emphasized the continued development of the three major connectivity corridors- the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor and the Northern Maritime Route- which are vital for enhancing logistical networks between the two nations. He said, ‘The three connectivity initiatives between us, as mentioned by the First DPM as well – INSTC, Chennai-Vladivostok Corridor and the Northern Maritime Route- all need continued attention, if we are to realise full potential’.
Beyond trade, he also emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in sectors such as education and film, which he sees as instrumental in forging a broader cultural and economic bond between India and Russia.
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