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UK and India to Resume Free-Trade Talks in 2024, Boosting Strategic Partnership
UK and India restart trade talks, with a focus on boosting growth, security, and cooperation across various sectors.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-19
UK and India to Resume Free-Trade Talks in 2024, Boosting Strategic Partnership

After nearly three years of stalled negotiations, Britain and India have agreed to relaunch talks for a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the new year, following a productive meeting between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit in Brazil.

Prime Minister Starmer, who assumed office in July, emphasized the economic potential of the trade deal, stating that it would help boost jobs and prosperity across the UK. He posted on social media, “A new trade deal will support jobs and prosperity in the UK — and represent a step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across the country.”

Downing Street confirmed that the two leaders expressed confidence in resolving outstanding issues and highlighted the importance of a balanced, mutually beneficial deal. The UK government is aiming for a comprehensive agreement that covers key areas including security, education, technology, and climate change.

India's foreign ministry echoed this sentiment, noting that both nations remain committed to resuming negotiations and addressing the remaining issues to mutual satisfaction.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

The FTA negotiations had faced hurdles under the previous Conservative government, particularly over issues such as tariffs on British imports like whisky and India’s request for more UK work and study visas. The UK’s strict stance on immigration, especially during Rishi Sunak’s tenure, complicated the talks, with the government implementing measures to curb migration in 2023.

With the UK government’s focus shifting to reviving the economy, Starmer's Labour administration is now keen to move forward with the trade deal, which is seen as a critical part of the UK’s post-Brexit strategy. The trade agreement is expected to unlock significant opportunities, not just in trade, but in strengthening diplomatic and strategic ties between the two nations.

Britain has already secured a number of post-Brexit deals, including with Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, and is set to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in the coming months. However, major trade deals with the United States and Canada remain elusive.
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