Indian High Commissioner says FTA with UK will strengthen bilateral trade, investment, and strategic ties
New Delhi (Eecnomy India): The proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom is poised to elevate bilateral relations to a new strategic and economic level, said Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami.
Speaking at a recent industry interaction in London, Doraiswami emphasized that the agreement, once finalized, will not only facilitate greater trade and investment flows but also foster closer cooperation in emerging sectors like technology, fintech, and green energy.
The FTA talks, which began in January 2022, are in their final stages, with both sides working intensively to resolve outstanding issues related to tariffs, intellectual property rights, and professional mobility. The High Commissioner noted that both governments are committed to creating a “modern, balanced, and comprehensive” agreement that reflects the aspirations of both economies.
A Comprehensive Partnership
India and the UK have witnessed robust growth in bilateral trade, which touched over $20 billion in 2024-25. The FTA is expected to significantly boost this figure by reducing trade barriers, improving market access, and fostering ease of doing business.
“An FTA will give a major thrust to Indian exporters in sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, auto components, and food products,” Doraiswami said. He added that British companies will also benefit from better access to India’s fast-growing consumer market, especially in premium goods and services.
Key Gains for India
One of the major focus areas for India in the negotiations has been securing favorable terms for the movement of skilled professionals, especially in IT, healthcare, and engineering services. The agreement is expected to create a more predictable and liberalized visa regime for Indian workers and students in the UK.
Additionally, India is aiming to safeguard its domestic manufacturing and agriculture sectors by negotiating sensitive tariff lines and seeking phased reductions wherever required.
Green Tech & Startups on the Agenda
The FTA is also expected to include cooperation frameworks on sustainability and climate change. India and the UK are both committed to transitioning to green economies, and the deal may include joint initiatives in electric mobility, clean energy, and carbon trading mechanisms.
The High Commissioner also highlighted that the agreement will promote startup collaborations, investment in deep tech, and academic exchanges.
The India-UK FTA, once concluded, will mark a milestone in economic diplomacy for both nations. It is expected to not only deepen trade ties but also strengthen strategic alignment in a rapidly shifting global economic landscape.
As both sides near the finish line, industry bodies, exporters, and investors are closely watching for the announcement of a final agreement — one that could define India-UK relations for the next decade.
(Economy India)
