Thu Jul 24 10:13:29 UTC 2025: ## India and UK Sign Landmark Free Trade Agreement, Expected to Double Trade by 2030

**London, UK** – India and the United Kingdom officially signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) today, a move projected to significantly boost economic ties between the two nations. The agreement, inked by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and British Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Keir Starmer, aims to double bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030.

The deal is expected to provide a significant boost to Indian agriculture, granting duty-free access to British markets for a range of agricultural and processed food products. Items like turmeric, pepper, cardamom, mango pulp, pickles, and pulses will benefit from the new arrangement, providing Indian farmers with wider market reach and increased profit margins.

“This agreement proposes that British markets will now be opened up to Indian farm produce and farmers here would enjoy better benefits than exporters from European countries,” stated a government release.

While opening up new opportunities for Indian exports, the government emphasized that protections are in place for sensitive agricultural sectors. The agreement excludes tariff concessions on dairy products, apples, oats, and edible oils to safeguard domestic farmers.

The fisheries sector, particularly in coastal states, is also poised to benefit. Exports of shrimp, tuna, fishmeal, and feeds, currently subject to duties in the UK, will now enjoy duty-free access.

Beyond agriculture and fisheries, the FTA will simplify the export of labour-intensive products like leather, footwear, and clothing. Conversely, imported goods from the UK, including whiskey, cars, and medical devices, are expected to become more affordable.

Speaking after the signing, Prime Minister Modi, on his fourth visit to the UK, emphasized the agreement’s importance in strengthening the economic partnership between India and the UK. “The focus will be on furthering prosperity, growth and boosting job creation for our people. A strong India-UK friendship is essential for global progress,” he said.

British Prime Minister Starmer hailed the FTA as a “landmark deal,” stating it would generate jobs, investment, and growth in the UK. “It creates thousands of British jobs, unlocks new opportunities for businesses and puts money in the pockets of working people. That’s our Plan for Change in action,” he added.

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