India’s long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom is expected to be approved by the British Parliament soon, according to Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Barthwal said the UK is eager to conclude the deal, viewing it as a major step toward advancing its economic interests.
“The UK considers this trade agreement with India as critical to its growth strategy, and they are keen to get it over the line at the earliest,” he said.
Barthwal emphasized that the FTA has been carefully structured to ensure that the strengths and sensitivities of both countries are respected. “It is a balanced agreement that ensures neither side is shortchanged,” he noted.
To ensure Indian businesses can make the most of the FTA, the Commerce Secretary highlighted the importance of educating stakeholders, enhancing capacity building, and training exporters to capitalize on new opportunities once the agreement comes into effect.
He also underlined that India has successfully protected key domestic sectors while negotiating the trade pact. Sensitive industries like dairy, cereals and millets, and pulses have been shielded from potentially adverse competition. Additionally, strategic exclusions were secured for energy fuels, marine vessels, smartphones, and optical fibers, which Barthwal said were necessary to safeguard national interests, MSMEs, and farmers.
The India-UK FTA is part of a broader push by New Delhi to expand its global trade footprint through comprehensive bilateral agreements that align with domestic priorities while opening access to key international markets.
