India-UK Sign Landmark Free Trade Deal Boosting Bilateral Trade

India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) expected to boost bilateral trade by nearly $34 billion annually, marking a significant post-Brexit trade milestone for the UK and India's most comprehensive trade pact in over a decade. The agreement, praised by Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, provides near-zero duty access for Indian exports such as textiles, gems, jewellery, seafood, and engineering goods, benefiting farmers, MSMEs, and labour-intensive sectors, while also reducing tariffs on British exports to India. The deal is anticipated to spur job creation, enhance competitiveness, and expand market access for professionals and service industries, alongside easing social security contributions for Indian workers in the UK. Wales is set to gain significantly, with duty-free access for Welsh lamb and benefits to renewable energy, creative industries, and food and drink sectors valued at £80 million annually. Both countries view the FTA as a win-win, fostering stable investment environments and resilient supply chains, with ongoing negotiations on a bilateral investment treaty expected to complement the agreement. Overall, the pact is seen as a transformative step towards shared prosperity, inclusive growth, and strengthened economic partnership.