Kolkata: The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is set to launch in early 2026. British Deputy High Commissioner Andrew Fleming recently called it the most ambitious deal both countries have negotiated.
This agreement spans about 20,000 pages, targeting opportunities for businesses, especially exporters from West Bengal and the Northeast. Fleming urged local businesses to prepare for the benefits this pact will bring.
India signed the CETA with the UK on July 24, aiming to double bilateral trade—from $56 billion to $112 billion. It covers 26 sectors, including tariffs and technology.
In a statement about the rollout, Fleming said, “We expect it in the first half of 2026.”
Once in effect, CETA will give Indian exporters duty-free access to the UK for 99% of their products. This will support labor-intensive sectors like textiles and leather, as well as high-growth fields such as engineering and chemicals. The UK will also benefit, particularly through reduced tariffs on goods like whisky.
A notable aspect of this agreement is its focus on women and gender. West Bengal, home to 23% of woman-led businesses in India, is expected to see significant benefits, including job creation and support for artisans and small businesses.
The CETA aligns with India’s ‘Vision 2035’, aiming for stronger ties in IT, finance, education, and engineering. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has emphasized that this agreement will drive inclusive growth, helping farmers and innovators while protecting India’s interests.
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Recent statistics show that India exported over $19.8 billion in services to the UK last year. The upcoming CETA aims to enhance this by facilitating easier movement of IT professionals, reflecting the increasing globalization of talent.
Social media has been buzzing about the CETA, with many users expressing excitement about the potential job growth it promises. However, others have raised concerns about the impact on local industries.
Experts in trade believe that, if executed well, this agreement could set a precedent for future trade deals. The emphasis on gender empowerment is a step many advocates have called for, highlighting a growing recognition of women’s roles in the economy.
For further reading on its implications, you can check the UK Government’s Trade Page.
CETA is not just a trade agreement; it’s a step toward a more interconnected future. The coming years could reshape the economic landscape for both nations.
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INDIA UK CETA, ANDREW FLEMING, INDIA UK TRADE PACT, INDIA-UK TRADE PACT EXPECTED TO COME INTO FORCE BY FIRST HALF OF 2026: BRITISH ENVOY
