India-UK Free Trade Agreement: Tariffs Slashed, Whisky & Cars to Get Cheaper
London
India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at boosting bilateral trade by $34 billion annually. The deal, finalized after three years of negotiations, was signed in London in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
What the FTA Means
Under the agreement, India will cut tariffs on UK imports from 15% to 3%, making products like British whisky, cars, cosmetics, soft drinks, and medical devices significantly cheaper for Indian consumers.
The UK, in turn, will grant zero-duty market access to several Indian goods, including:
- Coffee & Tea
- Spices
- Engineering Products
- Smartphones & Optical Fiber Cables
- Inverters & Generic Medicines
- Medical Devices, ECG Machines, X-Ray Systems
PM Modi on India-UK Trade Deal
Speaking after the signing ceremony, PM Modi said:
“Indian products like textiles, footwear, seafood, gems, and jewellery will gain better access to the UK market. This agreement promotes ease of doing business, lowers trade costs, and sets a strategic roadmap for the next decade.”
He also thanked PM Starmer for his strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
UK PM Starmer’s Statement
Calling the deal “historic,” PM Keir Starmer said:
“This agreement will boost jobs and development in Britain. Reduced tariffs mean lower prices for clothing, shoes, and food items — a relief for consumers. It also strengthens the economic bond between our two nations.”
Key Highlights of India-UK FTA
✔ Tariffs on UK goods in India: Cut from 15% to 3%
✔ British whisky, cars, and medical devices to get cheaper
✔ Indian goods gain zero-duty access in UK
✔ Annual trade boost estimated at $34 billion