How Will the India-UK FTA Accelerate Growth Across Sectors?

Synopsis
Discover how the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to revolutionize economic ties, creating new opportunities across sectors and enhancing competitiveness. This landmark deal promises to reshape trade dynamics, positioning India as a key global player.
Key Takeaways
- Elimination of tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK.
- Boost in trade for key sectors like textiles and IT services.
- Enhancement of job opportunities and competitiveness.
- Exemption from social security contributions for Indian workers in the UK.
- Alignment with India's vision to become a developed nation by 2047.
New Delhi, May 10 (NationPress) Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday underscored the transformative potential of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), asserting that it opens up promising pathways for growth across various sectors.
“The India-UK FTA paves the way for significant growth opportunities across diverse sectors,” the Minister stated on the social media platform X.
This FTA, concluded after rigorous negotiations, signifies a crucial milestone in the economic ties between India and the United Kingdom.
The agreement's primary goal is to eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK, positively impacting key sectors such as textiles, marine goods, leather, footwear, sports equipment, toys, gems and jewellery, engineering products, auto parts, and organic chemicals.
In addition to goods, the deal is projected to substantially enhance trade in services, including IT/ITeS, financial and professional services, business services, and education.
This comprehensive strategy is designed to elevate bilateral trade and stimulate economic growth for both nations.
A noteworthy aspect of the FTA is the exemption for Indian workers temporarily in the UK and their employers from contributing to social security for a span of three years.
This provision is anticipated to enhance the competitiveness of Indian service providers in the UK market and promote greater mobility for professionals.
Earlier this month, Minister Goyal highlighted that the FTA encompasses not just goods and services but also people, possibilities, and prosperity.
He expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and support, which facilitated the trade agreement.
“Under Prime Minister Modi's visionary guidance, India is increasingly acknowledged as a Vishwa Mitra – Trusted Partner on the global stage,” the Minister remarked.
“The India-UK FTA aligns with India's ambition to become a developed nation by 2047 and supports the growth objectives of both countries,” Goyal noted.
This agreement is expected to create both direct and indirect job opportunities, enhance competitiveness, and integrate value chains, thereby reinforcing the resilience of supply chains.