Tue Apr 29 10:33:50 UTC 2025: **India and UK Aim to Boost Trade Ties Amid FTA Negotiations**
London, April 29, 2025 – Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is in London for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties with the United Kingdom. His meetings included discussions with key UK officials and business leaders to advance ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.
Minister Goyal met with UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds to push forward the FTA, which was relaunched in February after a pause for UK general elections. He also held separate meetings with Revolut Chair Martin Gilbert, focusing on fintech collaborations, and De Beers Group CEO Al Cook, discussing opportunities in the gems and jewellery sector. A dinner meeting with a delegation of Indian business leaders, including representatives from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), further explored avenues for increased collaboration.
The FTA aims to significantly boost the current £41 billion annual trade partnership between India and the UK by reducing tariffs and simplifying trade processes. A UK Department for Business and Trade spokesperson emphasized the government’s commitment to a beneficial agreement that improves access for UK businesses. Minister Goyal’s visit continues with meetings scheduled with UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves and other senior officials.
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