India-UK Free Trade Agreement Marks a New Era in Strategic and Economic Collaboration

May 6, 2025: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has hailed the newly concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the United Kingdom as a major advancement in their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, highlighting its potential to significantly benefit both economies.

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Taking to social media platform X, Jaishankar stated, “A big step for the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It promises significant benefit to both economies.”

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The FTA was successfully concluded on Tuesday, alongside a Double Taxation Avoidance Convention, marking a landmark moment in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially announced the agreement, describing it as ambitious and mutually beneficial. He emphasized its role in strengthening trade, investment, innovation, and job creation across both countries.

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“Delighted to speak with my friend PM Keir Starmer,” Modi posted. “In a historic milestone, India and the UK have successfully concluded an ambitious and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement, along with a Double Contribution Convention. These landmark agreements will deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and catalyse trade, growth, and innovation in both economies. I look forward to welcoming PM Starmer to India soon.”

The Prime Minister’s Office also issued a statement detailing the telephone conversation between PM Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during which both leaders welcomed the agreements as a historic milestone in their bilateral ties.

Describing the FTA as balanced, equitable, and ambitious, the statement noted that it covers trade in goods and services, and is expected to substantially enhance bilateral trade, create employment opportunities, and improve the overall well-being of citizens in both nations.

PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to strengthening global alliances and removing trade barriers, describing the agreement as part of their broader Plan for Change aimed at delivering a stronger and more secure economy.

Both leaders reaffirmed that expanding economic and commercial ties remains a cornerstone of the increasingly dynamic and multifaceted India-UK partnership. They agreed that the FTA would not only bolster economic links but also deepen people-to-people ties and unlock collaborative opportunities in global markets.

The agreement cements the foundation of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and ushers in a new era of prosperity and cooperation. Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to PM Starmer to visit India, with both leaders agreeing to remain in close contact.