The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) organised an outreach programme to highlight the benefits of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The event, themed “Gateway to Growth: Harnessing Opportunities under India-UK CETA”, brought together senior government officials, diplomats, Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), and industry leaders. The programme aimed to guide exporters and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) on tapping new opportunities in the UK market.
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Strategic Significance of India-UK CETA
DGFT Director General Ajay Bhadoo explained that the India-UK CETA holds strategic importance in strengthening India’s position in the UK market. He pointed out tariff concessions, simplified market access, and new opportunities for Indian MSMEs to join global value chains. Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Saket Kumar, underlined the strong policy framework behind the agreement, while UK Deputy Trade Commissioner Anna Shotbolt called it a “milestone in bilateral trade ties.”
Minister (Economic) at the High Commission of India in London, Nidhi Mani Tripathi, added that Indian exporters can find new opportunities in food, textiles, and services. She stressed the need for exporters to match sustainability and quality standards to win UK buyers.
Sectoral Opportunities for Indian Exporters
Export Promotion Councils highlighted sector-wise benefits under the India-UK trade agreement. APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev noted rising UK demand for Indian agri and processed foods, especially organic and ready-to-eat products. FIEO Director General Dr Ajay Sahai urged exporters to use digital platforms to reach UK buyers.
From the services side, ESC Chairman Veer Sagar showcased the advantage for IT and knowledge-based exports, while SEPC Director Swati Saraf noted potential for creative industries, education, and professional services.
EPC leaders also stressed manufacturing and design strengths. GJEPC Vice Chairman Shaunak Parikh highlighted jewellery exports to the UK’s luxury market. EPCH’s Rajesh Rawat underlined opportunities in handicrafts and carpets. EEPC Executive Director Adhip Mitra spoke on engineering goods and auto components, while AEPC General Manager Dr Saurabh Kumar emphasised apparel exports aligned with sustainability norms.
The DGFT outreach marked a vital step in building awareness about the India-UK trade agreement. By focusing on tariff cuts, new market access, and sustainability standards, CETA opens fresh opportunities for MSMEs, services, manufacturing, and agriculture. The India-UK CETA is set to reshape bilateral trade and provide Indian exporters a stronger foothold in global markets.
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