THE WHAT? The European Union and India have concluded negotiations on India’s participation in the €93.5 billion Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, creating new opportunities for scientific collaboration, biotechnology development and industrial innovation.
THE DETAILS The agreement would allow Indian researchers, universities and businesses to receive direct funding and lead collaborative projects under Horizon Europe’s Pillar II, which supports research across healthcare, digital technologies, industrial innovation, climate, energy and the bioeconomy. India’s participation is expected to begin in January 2027, subject to the formal signing of the agreement and completion of the necessary approval procedures. The development builds on the existing EU–India Agreement for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which has been extended until 2030. Horizon Europe currently includes 23 associated non-EU countries, with India’s proposed participation strengthening international research partnerships and access to scientific expertise.
THE WHY? The agreement could create new opportunities for cosmetics manufacturers, ingredient suppliers and biotechnology companies to collaborate on advanced materials, sustainable formulations and AI-driven research. Greater access to European research funding and international scientific partnerships could support joint innovation projects between Indian and European cosmetics businesses, particularly in biotechnology, sustainable manufacturing and next-generation ingredients.
Source: European Commission
