The India–UK free trade agreement has officially come into effect from July 15, the Union government said. The move is expected to boost two-way trade, including in food products, by easing export-import transactions between the two countries.
Officials said the agreement opens up fresh opportunities for farmers, fishermen, micro and small enterprises, and manufacturers. With duties removed, Indian exporters are expected to find improved market access in the UK.
Before the agreement took effect, several product categories faced significant duties—processed foods up to 70%, marine products up to 20%, fruits up to 20%, leather and footwear up to 16%, electrical machinery up to 14%, and textiles up to 12%.
Other categories earlier attracted duties of up to 10% for tea and coffee, wood and paper, and aluminium; up to 8% for chemicals, minerals, machinery, perfumes and oilseeds; up to 6% for plastics and rubber and surgical instruments; and up to 4% for gems and jewellery as well as furniture and sports goods.
With the agreement now in force, export duties on all the above-listed items have been brought down to zero, the government said, raising expectations of stronger trade prospects for Indian industry in the UK.
