UK-India Trade Ties Strengthen with FTA Growth

The UK trade commissioner for South Asia, Harjinder Kang, is visiting Calcutta on December 10 and 11 to meet with important business leaders and celebrate the signing of a free trade agreement (FTA) between the UK and India.

The FTA, signed on July 24, is expected to boost trade and create jobs in both countries.

Kolkata is seen as a key city for UK businesses looking to expand in East and Northeast India.

Meanwhile, UK companies in India have expanded their footprint with a collective turnover of ₹5,693 billion and a workforce of 552,902 employees over the past year.

There are now 794 UK-owned or controlled companies operating in India, up from 667 last year.

The top sectors for these companies include business services, industrial products, financial services, technology, and energy & natural resources.

Maharashtra and Delhi NCR are the most significant hubs for UK companies, and 58% of UK firms in India are classified as MSMEs.

The FTA is expected to unlock new opportunities across advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital trade, and emerging technologies, driving growth, jobs, and sustainability for both economies.