Thursday, May 8 2025 | Time 22:02 Hrs(IST)
Business Economy


India-UK FTA to further integrate Indian businesses into global value chain: FIEO Chief

Hyderabad, May 6 (UNI) The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) on Tuesday said the finalisation of the historic India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a landmark step that will significantly boost bilateral trade, attract strategic investments, and further integrate Indian businesses into the global value chain.
The FTA reflects the shared economic vision of both countries and sets the stage for a mutually beneficial, sustainable, and forward-looking trade relationship, FIEO President S C Ralhan said in a statement here.
The India–UK FTA eliminates or significantly reduces tariffs on a wide range of Indian goods, giving our exporters preferential access to one of the world’s most affluent and consumption-driven markets.
Key sectors poised to benefit include: Textiles & Apparel: Removal of tariffs will enhance India’s competitiveness against countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam; Leather & Footwear: Increased access to high-end UK retail markets; Gems & Jewellery: A boost for India’s handcrafted and diamond processing exports; Pharmaceuticals: Streamlined regulatory processes will accelerate generic drug approvals; Agriculture & Processed Foods: Better access for value-added products, including tea, spices, rice, and ready-to-eat segments, said the FIEO President .
It will also boost services such as IT & Professional Service through mobility for professionals and reduced barriers for services exports, he said.
The FTA includes provisions on investment facilitation, intellectual property, digital trade, and dispute resolution—offering long-term predictability to UK investors. This will further strengthen India’s position as a preferred investment destination in the Indo-Pacific region, said Ralhan.

President FIEO believes that the India–UK FTA is a game changer. It will catalyse a new era of trade-led growth, open new doors for Indian exporters, deepen economic integration, and enhance our role in the global economy. ‘

He urged Indian businesses - especially MSMEs - to proactively tap into the opportunities offered by this agreement and expand their global footprint.

We look forward to working closely with the Government of India and industry stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and maximise the benefits from this path-breaking trade pact, he added.
UNI KNR RN
More News
Avaana Capital leads 1 2 million dollars seed round in High Time Foods

Avaana Capital leads 1 2 million dollars seed round in High Time Foods

08 May 2025 | 7:53 PM

Bengaluru, May 8 (UNI) Avaana Capital, a venture capital fund backing deep-tech and frontier innovation, has led a USD 1.2 million seed round in High Time Foods, a food-tech startup offering cost-effective, shelf-stable plant-based protein solutions. Existing investors also participated in the round.

see more..
Airtel Africa revenue grows 21 1 pc in constant currency

Airtel Africa revenue grows 21 1 pc in constant currency

08 May 2025 | 7:49 PM

London, May 8 (UNI) Airtel Africa Ltd on Thursday reported a strong financial performance for the year ended March 31, with constant currency revenue rising 21.1 per cent to USD 4,955 million and profit after tax (PAT) swinging to USD 328 million from a loss of USD 89 million in the previous fiscal, aided by easing currency headwinds and operational momentum across its markets.

see more..
Rupee slumps 77 paise against USD

Rupee slumps 77 paise against USD

08 May 2025 | 6:25 PM

Mumbai, May 8 (UNI) The Rupee dropped for the third straight session on Thursday, depreciating by 77 paise to 85.60 against USD, on brisk demand for the greenback from foreign banks and exporters, dealers at the Forex Market said.

see more..

LG Electronics new facility in Sri City to begin operations by 2026 end

08 May 2025 | 5:13 PM

Sri City (Andhra Pradesh), May 8 (UNI) LG Electronics India Ltd (LGEIL) announced on Thursday the commencement of construction of its new manufacturing facility in Sri City at a ceremony held here.

see more..