Operationalisation of India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) officially entered into force on July 15, 2026, signaling a transformative shift in the economic partnership between the two nations. This landmark agreement is designed to provide a robust framework for deepening trade ties, with a primary focus on market access and regulatory cooperation. Under the terms of the agreement, tariffs will be slashed on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and 90% of British goods entering India, providing a significant competitive edge to domestic manufacturers and exporters. The agreement is expected to provide a major fillip to key sectors such as textiles, agriculture, and marine products, which have historically faced high trade barriers. By lowering the cost of entry, Indian exporters can now better integrate into the UK’s supply chains. Beyond traditional trade, the CETA includes provisions to encourage British firms to establish Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. This move is anticipated to boost India’s services sector, promote technology transfer, and create high-value employment opportunities, further cementing India’s position as a global hub for innovation and digital services.