New Delhi, August 21: Antti Herlevi, the Trade Counselor at the Finnish Embassy, stated on Friday that the recently signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union will create new opportunities for businesses on both sides and elevate commercial cooperation between India and European nations. He expressed enthusiasm about European companies working more closely with Indian industries and eagerly awaiting the effective implementation of the agreement.
Herlevi remarked, “This year is extremely significant. As you know, the FTA has been signed, and European companies are keen to collaborate more deeply with India and its industries. There is considerable excitement surrounding this agreement, and we hope that all practical processes will be completed soon.”
He noted that the business community is looking forward to the implementation of this agreement, as it will provide new avenues for trade expansion, investment, and business partnerships for companies on both sides. According to him, this agreement could also strengthen cooperation between India and Europe within global supply chains.
Herlevi further stated that India could significantly benefit from Finland’s experience in developing a circular economy. He explained that Finland and several other European countries have long focused on resource reuse, recycling, and sustainable production systems. Consequently, companies from both nations can collaborate in reducing resource consumption, improving product design, and enhancing recycling systems.
He emphasized that the primary goal of a circular economy is to maximize resource utilization while minimizing waste. Reducing material usage can lower costs and environmental impacts throughout the supply chain. This will also decrease energy and water consumption and reduce reliance on new raw materials, which typically require more energy and produce higher carbon emissions.
Herlevi concluded, “In simple terms, we should use less material and recycle as much as possible. This can indeed be a significant step towards change.”
He stressed that the circular economy’s inception should begin at the product design stage. Companies should develop products that use less material, have a longer lifespan, and can be easily recycled after use.
He added, “This process starts from the early stages. Better planning and product design are essential for creating sustainable products that align with the principles of a circular economy.”
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