New Era As UK-India Trade Deal Begins

The UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) came into force on 15th July, 2026.

Reacting to the UK-India trade deal entering into force, Steve Lynch MBE, Director of International Trade at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:    

“It has been a tough few years for UK traders but there is a real buzz among businesses about this deal entering into force. It is a genuinely exciting milestone. 

“Trade between our countries is already substantial, and we now have a real opportunity to build further momentum. It is an important new chapter that can bring many more businesses into the relationship and unlock the next wave of trade, investments and partnerships.  

“India has shot up the agenda for British businesses, but there is still a significant gap between many SMEs’ interest in the market and their actual exports.  

“No free trade agreement is a silver bullet. It will only deliver growth if businesses understand it, use it and have the confidence, capability and connections to turn it into real sales.  

“Chambers across the UK and our in-country affiliate, the UK India Business Council, are now starting the real work of turning this policy into practical delivery. 

“We are working closely with the Indian High Commission and partners in both countries to develop a UK–India Trade Accelerator. Once established, this will give ambitious firms the market insight, regulatory guidance, trusted relationships and in-market support they need to succeed. 

“The real prize sits on top of the 2,000 plus pages in the trade agreement. It is more British businesses exporting to India, building lasting partnerships and converting the enormous potential of the deal into real jobs, investment and growth.” 

Claiming Preferential Tariffs

Following the entry into force of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, please note that UK exporters claiming preferential tariff treatment for goods exported to India must use an origin declaration completed by the exporter or producer.

This is a self-certification process which must not be stamped, certified or endorsed by UK Issuing Bodies.

HMRC guidance confirms that UK producers/exporters intending to complete origin declarations must register with HMRC. For each consignment, the exporter must complete the Origin Declaration Template and send it to both the customs authority in India and the importer of record in India. Further information can be found here.

Understanding and Utilising the UK India FTA

The Hull and Humber Chamber is running a series of UK India FTA awareness sessions designed to help UK exporters and importers understand the key provisions of the agreement, how to establish whether their goods qualify for preferential tariff rates, and what steps are needed to claim preference compliantly. Click here for full details.