In a significant milestone for India’s global trade ambitions, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal hailed the newly signed India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a “game-changing” pact that will benefit a wide spectrum of the Indian economy. Signed in London on July 25, 2025, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) allows 99% of Indian exports to the U.K. to enter duty-free. Goyal emphasized that the FTA would open vast new opportunities for farmers, MSMEs, industrial workers, youth, and the fishing community.

Speaking at a press conference at BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Goyal underscored that the deal was signed “on India’s terms” with critical sectors such as agriculture and ethanol being fully protected. He also took a swipe at previous UPA governments, alleging that earlier trade policies had often compromised national interests. In contrast, the current FTA was presented as a well-negotiated agreement that secures India’s long-term trade and economic growth, laying the groundwork for increased foreign investment and expanded access to key international markets.

The agreement, pending approval by the U.K. Parliament, is expected to significantly boost Indian exports in sectors like pharmaceuticals, leather, toys, gems and jewellery, food processing, and services. Goyal urged Indian industries to thoroughly study the agreement and begin exploring untapped U.K. markets. He added that the deal signals a promising shift in India’s trade diplomacy and sets a precedent for future negotiations. Industry leaders and trade analysts have also welcomed the agreement, viewing it as a catalyst for accelerating India’s journey toward becoming a global manufacturing and export powerhouse.