Ahmedabad initiated exports to the United Kingdom under the India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the first consignment valued at over Rs 3.07 crore. The export consignment, involving cargo from seven exporters in Ahmedabad, was sent off from the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Sanand, marking the beginning of preferential tariff trade under the agreement that commenced on July 15. The event was organized by the Office of the Additional Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ahmedabad, in collaboration with the Customs Department.
The flag-off ceremony was graced by the presence of the British Deputy High Commissioner in Ahmedabad, Stephen Hickling, the Additional Commissioner of Customs, Ram Vishnoi, and the Joint Director General of Foreign Trade, Rahul Singh. Assistant DGFTs Deepshikha Singh and Divya Patel, along with representatives from the exporting companies and the Export Promotion Council, also attended the ceremony. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the consignment, valued at Rs 3,07,76,171.36, included shipments from various companies such as JCB Industries Pvt. Ltd, Otsuka Pharmaceutical India Pvt. Ltd, and Maruti Suzuki India Limited.
The exports encompass a diverse range of sectors including industrial equipment, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, polymers, and textiles, showcasing the extensive manufacturing and export capabilities of Ahmedabad. Gujarat is anticipated to be a significant beneficiary of the India-UK trade agreement, with expectations of increased export opportunities in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, engineering goods, and marine products from various regions within the state. The agreement aims to enhance market access for micro, small, and medium enterprises in the UK by reducing trade barriers.
