UK-India Free Trade Agreement enters force, promising trade boost

The United Kingdom and India have officially launched their Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a landmark accord described as one of the biggest trade deals in modern times. The agreement came into force on Wednesday, poised to significantly enhance the £48 billion in total trade between the two nations.

Consumers in both countries can now anticipate immediate benefits, including cheaper, quicker, and more accessible trade in products and services. To commemorate the occasion, a special consignment of British goods, including cosmetics, food, and beverages subject to reduced tariffs, arrived in Mumbai aboard a British Airways flight. Harjinder Kang, Trade Commissioner for South Asia, highlighted the agreement as a "watershed moment" for the UK-India partnership, designed to benefit businesses and consumers from day one.

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This is a watershed moment for the UK-India partnership. As the landmark trade deal comes into force, what better than having select British products arriving on one of the very first UK flights into India this morning, with thanks to the support of British Airways. Our landmark trade deal is designed to benefit businesses and consumers from day one with cheaper, quicker, and easier trade. We are all excited to take full advantage of it.

David Wright, British Airways' General Manager in India, emphasized the airline's commitment to strengthening economic and cultural ties, noting India as a key market with a long history of connection. The FTA is set to boost trade, investment, and tourism, reinforcing the dynamic relationship between the UK and India. Starting Wednesday, 99% of Indian goods entering the UK and 90% of UK goods entering India will either be duty-free or face reduced tariffs.

The agreement marks a significant milestone in the bilateral economic partnership, benefiting a wide array of sectors including automotive, manufacturing, consumer goods, creative industries, and medical technology. Celebratory events are planned across India and the UK to mark this major achievement, underscoring the long-term potential of this crucial corridor.

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India is one of British Airways' most important markets, and we have a long history of connecting people, businesses, and cultures across the UK and India. With 63 flights each week, increasing to 70 by the end of summer, we play an important role in strengthening economic and cultural ties between our two countries. The UK-India Free Trade Agreement marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the UK and India and reinforces the long-term potential of one of the world's most dynamic international corridors. We are proud to support this landmark agreement and the opportunities it will create for trade, investment, and tourism. As the UK's flag carrier, we look forward to deepening our links with India and connecting customers and communities across our global network for years to come.