On July 24, 2025, India signed one of its most important trade deals in recent history — the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the UK. It took more than 3 years and 13 rounds of negotiation. But finally, it’s done.
What is the India-UK Trade Deal All About?
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a proposed trade deal that aims to reduce tariffs, boost investments, and promote easier market access between the two nations. After over 14 rounds of negotiations, both countries are closer than ever to finalizing the deal in 2025
“Under the finalized terms of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, nearly 99% of Indian exports to the UK — including key sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, leather products, agricultural items, and chemical goods — will now enjoy zero import duties,” senior Indian trade officials confirmed during a press briefing.
As part of the India-UK trade agreement, India has agreed to significantly liberalize its tariff structure. The country will reduce tariffs on 90% of UK-origin goods, with the average import duty dropping sharply from 15% to just 3%.
One of the key highlights is in the spirits sector—India will immediately slash the import duty on Scotch whisky from 150% to 75%, with a phased reduction to 40% over the next 10 years.
In the automobile space, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs), India has agreed to a quota-based tariff reduction model. The import duty on EVs, which currently stands at a steep 110%, will be gradually reduced to 10%, significantly boosting market access for UK-based EV manufacturers..
Textile Sector: One of the Biggest Winners
Among all industries, the textile and apparel sector stands out as one of the biggest gainers from the India-UK Free Trade Agreement.
Indian textile exports — especially cotton garments, home furnishings, and readymade apparel — have long faced stiff duties in the UK market, sometimes up to 12%. With the new FTA eliminating almost all of these tariffs, Indian manufacturers now get a level playing field against competitors like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Turkey who already enjoy preferential access.
Which Sectors Will Be Most Impacted?
1. Pharmaceuticals
India’s generic drug exports to the UK could become cheaper and more competitive.
Fact: India is the 3rd largest producer of pharmaceuticals by volume globally.
2. Automobile and EVs
UK’s advanced EV tech could flow into India. In return, India’s components and affordable models may find UK buyers.
3. IT & Tech Services
India’s IT firms (like TCS, Infosys) already employ thousands in the UK. The FTA could remove skill visa barriers.
4. Agriculture & Spirits
UK may push for more access to India’s whisky market, while India may gain easier access for tea, rice, and spices in UK retail chains.
Who Benefits the Most?
1) Small Businesses (SMEs): With reduced duties, Indian exporters of textiles, leather, jewelry can scale globally
2) Startups: Easier access to funding and UK markets
3) Education sector: Mutual recognition of degrees and visas for Indian students
Final Thought
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement isn’t just a diplomatic milestone—it’s a defining moment in India’s journey toward becoming a truly global economic powerhouse. By dismantling tariffs, opening up new sectors, and removing regulatory bottlenecks, this deal sets the stage for deeper economic integration between two historically connected nations.
For Indian businesses — whether you’re an MSME exporting textiles or a tech startup exploring global funding — this agreement presents a rare window of opportunity. It reduces barriers, enhances competitiveness, and provides easier access to one of the world’s most mature consumer markets. For the UK, it offers access to the fastest-growing large economy, a vibrant consumer base, and a young, skilled workforce.
But more importantly, it signals something even bigger: India is no longer just the world’s back office — it’s stepping forward as a front-running trade partner. And the UK, in its post-Brexit phase, is looking eastward — toward India — not just for trade, but for long-term strategic alignment.
Whether you’re a policymaker, an investor, a student, or an entrepreneur — this is the time to think global, act fast, and ride the wave of this transformative trade relationship. Because deals like these don’t just change economies — they reshape futures.