India and the UK are gearing up for a major trade milestone, with the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). It is expected to be implemented in the first half of 2026, according to British Deputy High Commissioner Andrew Fleming.

The pact, signed on 24th July 2025, is described as the most comprehensive and ambitious trade deal negotiated by both countries. It covers 26 sectors from tariffs to technology.

CETA aims to double bilateral trade in goods and services from $56 billion to $112 billion. It offers duty-free access for 99% of Indian products to the UK, including textiles, leather, marine products, gems and jewellery, toys, engineering goods, chemicals, and auto components.

The agreement also benefits UK exports, such as whisky, through tariff rationalisation. It expands services trade, enabling greater mobility for IT professionals and boosting India’s service exports, which reached $19.8 billion in 2023.

A first-of-its-kind chapter on women and gender is included. It is expected to benefit woman-led businesses, especially in West Bengal, which has the highest share of female entrepreneurs (23%). This supports MSMEs, artisans, and employment growth.

The deal aligns with the ‘Vision 2035’ roadmap. It covers IT, financial services, education, telecom, and engineering, while aiming to drive inclusive growth for farmers, innovators, and artisans, as highlighted by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

Fleming urged regional businesses to start preparing early to take full advantage of the upcoming opportunities under the agreement.

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