NEW DELHI: UAE is set to allow easier access for Indian nurses, engineering and accountancy professionals as well as the IT and IT-enabled services as part of the comprehensive economic partnership agreement, which is to be implemented over the next few weeks.
Government sources said the bilateral trade deal, clinched in record time, will see India also commit to a liberal regime for 100 out of the 160 services. On its part, UAE has made “meaningful commitment” for market access in 111 services. So far, the focus has been on manufacturing, but a key gain is seen to be on the services front, including movement of Indian professionals.
The government sees the UAE becoming a base for Indian companies and professionals to cater to the requirements in other parts of West Asia as well as Africa.
With India planning to enhance its engagement with West Asia through a trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council, the agreement with UAE could be the basis for negotiations for similar opening up. Apart from UAE, GCC comprises Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar.
The government is pushing for trade agreements with several countries including the UK, Australia, Canada and Israel to boost exports and is using services to leverage a better deal for Indian goods that will be shipped out of the country.
While the IT and ITES related commitments will help the computer related services segments, a further opening up of audio visual, education, health, tourism and travel-related services can amplify India’s soft power. More details are expected over the next few days during commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to the Emirates.