1 week ago
Last Updated:July 24, 2025, 16:04 IST
Keir Starmer, the UK PM, said the UK-India FTA is the “most significant deal since UK (made since it) left the EU” at a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday.
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomes Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Chequers near Aylesbury, England. (IMAGE: REUTERS)
Keir Starmer, the UK PM, said the UK-India FTA is the “most significant deal since the UK (has made since it) left the European Union" at a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday in the English town of Aylesbury.
The British Prime Minister said the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) “will bring huge benefits to both of our countries, boosting wages, raising living standards and putting more money in the pockets of working people".
“This is the most significant deal the UK has signed since leaving the European Union," UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said.
“It is a comprehensive trade deal—perhaps the most comprehensive India has ever done. This agreement sends a powerful message that the UK is open for business," he said.
The deal allows for duty-free access for about 99% of Indian exports which unlocks nearly $23 billion in opportunities for labour-intensive sectors, marking a new era for inclusive and gender-equitable growth. “It is good for jobs, it is good for business, putting tariffs and making trade cheaper, quicker and easier.
At the joint statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the agreement will prove particularly beneficial for India’s youth, farmers, fishermen and MSME sector.
“Today is a historic day in our bilateral relationship. Both countries have completed a comprehensive economic trade agreement," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.
“Indian products like textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery, and seafood will get better access to the UK market. UK products such as medical devices and aerospace parts will now be available to Indians at affordable prices," he said.
“This agreement will help create new job opportunities and is part of our commitment—from AI and critical minerals to semiconductors and cybersecurity—to build the future," he said.
This is significant because UK firms outsource production to Indian pharma companies, while Indian firms license or co-develop patented drugs with UK partners.
While the UK benefits from India’s cost-efficient manufacturing and talent, India gains access to cutting-edge R&D, regulatory know-how and global pharma networks. The India-UK FTA is expected to deepen this interdependence further.
Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev...Read More
Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev...
Read More
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view commentsLocation :London, United Kingdom (UK)
First Published:News business 'Most Comprehensive Deal Since UK Left EU': PM Keir Starmer On Trade Pact With India
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