India‑UK Trade Agreement Opens Door for Expanded Investment, Says Diplomat

Speaking in Gandhinagar on October 14, Deputy High Commissioner Steve Hickling highlighted the tangible advantages that the India‑UK Free Trade Agreement is providing to companies in both nations. The treaty eliminates or reduces tariffs on 99 percent of Indian export categories to the UK and on 90 percent of British export categories to India, a move that has already begun to reshape trade flows.

Hickling pointed to a growing wave of interest among Indian exporters eyeing the UK market and British investors looking to establish a foothold in India. He cited British machinery giant JCB’s active production line in the country and the high‑value investments flowing into the GIFT City financial district, where British banks, fintech firms and two university campuses are setting up operations.

The diplomat affirmed that the partnership has reached an unprecedented level of intensity since the agreement’s signing on July 14, and he noted a recent meeting in Delhi with northern England ministers and several Indian mayors to discuss how the free‑trade framework can be best utilized for mutual benefit.