India & UK Sign Historic Free Trade Agreement

On 6th May 2025, India and the United Kingdom concluded a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), eliminating tariffs on 99% of Indian exports and unlocking major opportunities across goods and services.

Key Points

Comprehensive Coverage: The FTA removes tariffs on key Indian exports including textiles, gems, auto components, marine products, and engineering goods.
Services Boost: Indian professionals in IT, finance, education, and consulting gain unprecedented market access in the UK.
Mobility Gains: Simplified visa processes for business visitors, investors, yoga instructors, chefs, and more.
Social Security Relief: Indian workers in the UK exempt from social security contributions for three years, reducing costs for employers and employees.
Economic Impact: Bilateral trade, currently around USD 60 billion, expected to double by 2030.
Strategic Vision: Aligns with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goals and deepens the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Domestic Impact: Benefits for MSMEs, startups, farmers, and workers, alongside better regulatory practices and supply chain resilience.