India and Argentina have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation at the fourth meeting of the India–Argentina Joint Trade Committee (JTC), held on August 24, 2026, at Palacio San Martín in Buenos Aires.
The Indian delegation was headed by Commerce Secretary Shri Rajesh Agrawal, while Argentina was represented by Ambassador Fernando Brun, Secretary for International Economic Relations. The discussions reviewed progress under the roadmap agreed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Argentina in 2025 and explored new avenues to expand the strategic economic partnership.
Bilateral Trade Records Strong Growth
India–Argentina trade crossed USD 6.5 billion in 2025, registering annual growth of more than 17 per cent. India is now Argentina’s fifth-largest trading partner, reflecting the growing importance of the bilateral commercial relationship.
Both sides discussed the need to diversify trade and create a more balanced and reciprocal business environment. Argentina’s initiatives to simplify foreign trade procedures, address non-tariff barriers and encourage investment are expected to improve opportunities for Indian businesses seeking to enter or expand in the Argentine market.
Focus on Lithium, Energy and Infrastructure
Investment cooperation featured prominently during the JTC discussions, particularly in mining, energy and infrastructure. The two countries highlighted the continuing involvement of India’s KABIL in Argentina’s lithium industry.
KABIL’s project in Catamarca represents the first lithium mining initiative by an Indian company in Argentina. Phase II drilling has now been completed, marking substantial progress in the project. India and Argentina are also examining opportunities in Salta and Jujuy, potentially expanding cooperation in the strategically important lithium sector.
Greater Market Access for Indian Farm Products
Agricultural trade emerged as another important area of cooperation. Technical discussions on sanitary and phytosanitary requirements are progressing for several Indian products, including onions, milk and dairy products, grapes, potatoes, bananas and pulses.
Improved market access could open new opportunities for Indian farmers, agricultural exporters and food businesses. The development is also aligned with India’s broader objective of building stronger global market linkages as part of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Cooperation
Significant progress was reported on market access for Indian pharmaceutical products. Argentina has agreed to work towards moving India from Annex II to Annex I under its pharmaceutical regulatory system and reducing barriers faced by Indian pharmaceutical companies.
The move could strengthen the presence of Indian medicines in the Argentine market while supporting access to quality and affordable healthcare. Building on the 2019 cooperation agreement between Argentina’s ANMAT and India’s CDSCO, both countries also agreed to explore stronger collaboration in Ayurveda and Yoga.
New Opportunities in Technology and Digital Sectors
India and Argentina identified aviation, space technology, telecommunications and digital services as promising areas for future cooperation. Emerging technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure were highlighted as sectors capable of generating new commercial partnerships.
The India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement was also discussed as an important instrument for expanding market access. Progress on the agreement’s Terms of Reference and the adoption of digital certificates of origin are expected to make cross-border trade more efficient.
Business Engagement Gains Momentum
Following the JTC, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal met Argentina’s Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship Minister Pablo Quirno and representatives of the G6 industry chambers. The interaction provided insights from Argentine businesses and highlighted the need for closer alignment between government policies and industry requirements.
Agrawal also held discussions with senior Argentine officials on agricultural market access, non-tariff barriers, pharmaceutical regulatory recognition, and cooperation in nuclear and space sectors. Discussions included a proposed meeting between ISRO and Argentina’s CONAE.
First Major Indian Business Delegation to Argentina
The economic engagement continued on August 25 with the India–Argentina Business Forum at Palacio San Martín. Led by Commerce Secretary Agrawal, the forum featured the largest-ever Indian business delegation to Argentina, comprising more than 25 business leaders from companies including UPL, Kirloskar and Aditya Birla Group.
Businesses from both countries explored opportunities across agriculture, minerals, energy, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, tourism, banking and telecommunications. The discussions sought to convert government-level cooperation into concrete trade, investment and business partnerships.
The latest engagements underline the expanding scope of India–Argentina relations. Greater cooperation in traditional sectors alongside emerging fields such as digital technology, space and critical minerals could help both countries diversify trade, attract investment and create new avenues for long-term economic growth.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
