India-UK Ink Major Trade Accord, Unveil Vision 2035 for
Stronger Future Cooperation

Img Source: X

Los Angeles/ July 25, 2025
NRIpress.club/Ramesh/ A.Gary Singh

In a significant step forward in bilateral relations, India and the United Kingdom on Thursday signed a comprehensive trade agreement aimed at eliminating tariffs on a wide array of goods, including cars, whisky, textiles, and more. The agreement was signed in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, Keir Starmer, who also launched a forward-looking "Vision 2035" framework to strengthen cooperation in defence, clean energy, technology, and migration.

The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), signed by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, is expected to enhance annual trade by approximately USD 34 billion, offering broader market access and economic opportunities for both nations.

Described as the UK’s most ambitious trade deal since Brexit, the pact comes amidst global economic shifts and growing concern around rising protectionist measures.

Calling the agreement a “major win,” Prime Minister Starmer said it would ease the cost of living for Britons by making Indian imports more affordable and create new job opportunities across the UK. The pact is also expected to benefit Indian exporters, especially in textiles, agricultural goods, seafood, footwear, and engineering.

Additionally, both countries agreed to work toward a Double Contribution Convention (DCC), which will exempt Indian employers from UK social security contributions for up to three years, easing the financial burden on businesses sending employees abroad.

The leaders held talks at Chequers, the UK Prime Minister’s countryside retreat, where they also unveiled a joint roadmap to co-develop and co-produce advanced defence platforms. A separate agreement was signed between India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the UK's National Crime Agency to bolster cooperation in tackling cross-border crime.

During the talks, India raised concerns over the activities of pro-Khalistani elements operating from British territory. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that extremist groups should not be allowed to exploit democratic rights to spread radical agendas.
The CETA will remove tariffs on 99% of product categories, representing nearly all trade by value, thereby opening up extensive new opportunities for Indian industries including MSMEs, agriculture, fisheries, and youth-driven enterprises. In return, British exports like aerospace components and medical devices will be more competitively priced for Indian buyers.

“This is more than just a trade agreement; it is a partnership for shared growth,” Modi stated. He added that the agreement will benefit multiple sectors, driving inclusive development for both nations.

The unveiling of the "Vision 2035" strategy further reinforced a mutual commitment to a modern, trusted, and ambitious India-UK partnership, which aims to advance collaboration in AI, semiconductors, cybersecurity, critical minerals, and other cutting-edge technologies.

News Source: Click Here