India-U.K. FTA offers mutual growth, says Trade Commissioner New

The U.K.-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) deal would mutually benefit both nations and promote mobility, innovation, inclusivity, support jobs, boost exports, and strengthen cross-border trade and economic growth, said Harjinder Kang, Trade Commissioner, South Asia, and British Deputy High Commissioner, Western India, at the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) organised roundtable here on Tuesday.

“The vision also aligns with the U.K.’s modern industrial strategy which will help businesses overcome barriers to investment across sectors,” he commented, while addressing BCIC members.

Chandru Iyer, British Deputy High Commissioner, Karnataka and Kerala and Deputy Trade Commissioner, South Asia (Investment), further explained how this strategic partnership could unlock new opportunities for bilateral growth and collaboration.

“Indian-owned companies are already thriving in the U.K., driving jobs in high-growth sectors such as aerospace, technology, and advanced manufacturing. Indian businesses are making the most of the U.K.’s ecosystem and the U.K.-India CETA will boost this further,” he observed.

He further said he was confident that the new comprehensive strategic partnership would see closer partnerships in defence, education, climate, technology, and innovation.

The technology security initiative (TSI), signed last year, would lead to increased collaboration in areas including telecom security which would unlock investment across emerging technologies, critical minerals, AI, biotech advanced materials and semiconductors, he stated.

“We believe that this agreement will have a significant impact on our economies and will support job creation, technology transfer, and innovation. With its potential to double bilateral trade by 2030, this agreement is expected to have a lasting impact on both economies,” said Prashant Gokhale, president, BCIC.