The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project, dubbed the “New Spice Route”, is back in the spotlight following the US-China trade war and Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
Officially launched at the 2023 G20 Summit in Delhi, IMEC was built to bypass the Suez Canal by connecting India to Europe via the Gulf and Israel.
However, this project was once stalled due to political turmoil and global trade uncertainties. Now, also because of politics, it is being given a new lease of life—for the sake of economic stability and quick access to world markets.
India’s closer position to Europe and the crisis of trust in China make IMEC an important asset. For the EU, it is an opportunity to shorten delivery times and reduce dependence on Beijing.
Experts remind that IMEC is not a competitor to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, but rather a regional strategy that positions India as the future pillar of the European economy.
Not only is the EU attracted to India, the United States also does not want to be left behind with Vice President JD Vance's recent visit to India which gave a clear signal that Washington is ready to strengthen strategic alliances and make IMEC a new weapon in global competition.
