The recently signed Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom is expected to significantly boost India’s exports and attract fresh investments from Britain, according to trade experts. The agreement, signed on 24 July, is likely to come into effect next year, marking a major step forward in strengthening bilateral economic ties. Gulzar Didwania, Partner at Deloitte India, said the pact would deliver substantial benefits for India by enhancing export opportunities, attracting investments, and providing duty-free market access for nearly 99 per cent of Indian exports across key sectors such as textiles, automotive components, footwear, and pharmaceuticals. He added that one of the most important aspects of the deal lies in the services sector, where it will unlock broader opportunities for Indian IT, financial, healthcare, and professional service providers in the UK. Additionally, Didwania noted that the agreement will facilitate easier movement of skilled professionals, promote mutual recognition of qualifications, and deepen collaboration in education, innovation, and research. SC Ralhan, President of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), said the trade pact could help double bilateral trade to USD 120 billion by 2030. “The India-UK Free Trade Agreement opens unprecedented opportunities across key sectors, especially for MSMEs and labour-intensive industries. It not only reduces tariffs but also simplifies regulatory barriers for services and investments,” Ralhan said. He emphasised that the deal would provide a major boost to India’s manufacturing and services exports, while encouraging greater UK investment in high-growth industries such as renewables, technology, and infrastructure. The India-UK CETA is viewed as a landmark trade milestone, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to open markets, innovation-driven collaboration, and sustainable economic growth.