"This is the first FTA for India where it has been able to get a commitment on investment and employment from the partner nations. The EFTA countries are looking at investing in joint ventures in areas such as pharmaceuticals, especially medical devices, certain chemicals, food processing, and engineering products," disclosed an official closely monitoring the negotiations.

The BIT is aimed at improving the confidence of investors, especially big investors resulting in a rise in foreign investments and overseas direct investment (ODI) opportunities. It is also likely to have a positive impact on employment generation.