UK Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle arrived in Delhi to move forward the next phase of the £48 billion trading relationship with India. A UK government statement said the secretary will meet India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to advance bilateral ties. The officials plan to discuss steps to implement the Free Trade Agreement as soon as possible.
The effort to conclude the pact occurs against a backdrop of global trade uncertainty. Ongoing international conflicts, such as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, have created economic disruptions in major economies. Kyle considers strengthening economic links with India a priority.
The agreement would remove tariffs on 99 per cent of UK goods and 90 per cent of Indian goods, reducing costs and simplifying trade. During the visit, the secretary will also consult Indian and British business representatives to prepare companies for the changes.
The UK government described the deal as the most significant bilateral trade agreement since the country’s departure from the European Union. It includes 30 chapters covering areas such as gender, innovation, environment and labour.
The current trip follows an earlier visit last year by the UK Prime Minister and the Trade Secretary. That mission included 125 British business leaders who met Indian counterparts in Mumbai.
Kyle stated that the agreement will create major opportunities for companies and consumers in both countries across sectors including whisky and automobiles. He said he aims to work with Goyal to deliver benefits quickly.
The UK government emphasised its commitment to offering businesses the stability needed for growth amid economic challenges. Trade deals are intended to support exports, employment and wages.
