UK and India total trade, worth £48 billion in 2025, is set for
an immediate boost with consumers now enjoying cheaper, quicker,
and easier access to the best of British and Indian products and
services across both countries.
To celebrate this historic occasion, a special package of select
British goods arrived at the British Deputy High Commission in
Mumbai on the morning of 15 July aboard a British Airways flight.
This package was unveiled by Harjinder Kang, His Majesty's Trade
Commissioner for South Asia, and , British Airways' General
Manager in India to signal the arrival of new opportunities
unlocked under the agreement for both countries.
The package contained goods from the UK benefitting from reduced
tariffs, including cosmetics, food products, and alcoholic
beverages.
Harjinder Kang, His Majesty's Trade Commissioner for South Asia
and British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India, said:
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 in one of the very first UK
flights into India this morning - with thanks to support from
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.
, British Airways' General
Manager in India, said:
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 going
up 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.
Starting 15 July, 99% of Indian goods entering the UK and 90% of
UK goods entering India will either be duty free or reduced in
tariffs. It will benefit a wide range of sectors on both sides
including automotive, manufacturing, consumer goods, creative
industries, and medical technology as it marks the biggest
milestone in the bilateral economic partnership.
To mark this major milestone, a number of celebratory events and
activations will be hosted by the UK Government across India and
the UK including business receptions in New Delhi, Mumbai,
Bengaluru, and at Lancaster House in London.
In the long run, the deal is expected to boost bilateral trade by
£25.5 billion, Indian GDP by £5.1billion, and UK GDP by
£4.8billion every year.
Further information
- high-resolution photos from the launch activity will be
available on Flickr.
- the crate features products generously sponsored by the
following UK companies: Diageo, Lush, Bodyshop, Denman,
Dr.PawPaw, The Somerset Toiletry, Rodial, Collection Cosmetics,
Make up Revolution, Truefitt & Hill, BRITPRO LONDON, SAICHO,
Mr FILBERTS, The Fine Cheese Co, Maldon Salt, Premier Foods,
ReWater, Cornish Sea Salt and Blue Dragon
- the UK-India trade deal is known as Comprehensive Economic
and Trade Agreement (CETA) and it was signed on 24 July 2025
- Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and announced the roll out of
the trade deal at the G7 in France last month
- to find out more, visit: https://www.business.gov.uk/campaign/alive-with-opportunity/the-uk-india-trade-deal
