Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United Kingdom from 23 to 24 July at the invitation of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. This marks PM Modi’s fourth official visit to the UK.
Accompanying him will be Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who played a crucial role in finalising the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The agreement, jointly announced by PM Modi and PM Starmer on 6 May, represents a historic milestone in India-UK relations. Finalised after high-level discussions, including a direct call between the two leaders, the FTA promises significant tariff relief and market access across goods and services.
Piyush Goyal’s Crucial Role
Minister Piyush Goyal, who has led the Indian side in the trade negotiations, will travel with the Prime Minister to London. Goyal has been instrumental in shaping the contours of the deal, ensuring that India’s strategic sectors, particularly exports and services, gain maximum benefit.
According to official sources, the agreement grants zero-duty access to 99% of Indian exports to the UK. This will especially benefit sectors like textiles, leather, marine products, toys, gems and jewellery, auto parts, engineering goods, and chemicals.
Services Sector Gains and Mobility Boost
The deal also opens new avenues for India’s booming services sector, including IT/ITeS, professional and financial services, and education.
India secured a significant win by exempting Indian workers and their employers from paying UK social security contributions for three years under the Double Contribution Convention.
This is set to improve global mobility for Indian professionals and reduce employment costs.
India will reciprocate by lowering tariffs on select British goods, including premium items such as whisky and electric vehicles, offering the UK improved access to Indian markets.
During his visit, PM Modi will engage in comprehensive talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The leaders will review the full spectrum of India-UK bilateral relations, from trade and investment to technology, defence, education, and global cooperation.
Leaders of India and the UK see the FTA as a cornerstone for expanding bilateral economic cooperation and global influence. With Piyush Goyal’s presence underlining India’s trade priorities, the agreement signals a new chapter in India-UK strategic relations.
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