Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal unveiled a practical business manual for the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in London. The manual aims to assist businesses from both countries in optimizing the advantages of the trade pact before it becomes effective on July 15. Developed by the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) and HSBC India, the ‘UK-India CETA Business Utilisation Manual’ offers sector-specific guidance to help companies implement the trade agreement effectively.
The manual is a dynamic resource intended to aid firms in comprehending and leveraging the opportunities arising from the CETA. Scheduled for implementation on July 15, the India-UK trade agreement is anticipated to enhance market access, diminish trade barriers, and strengthen economic ties between the two nations. The launch event, held in London, brought together senior business leaders from India and the UK to foster bilateral economic relations.
Dr. Kishore Jayaraman, Group CEO of UK India Business Council, emphasized the significance of the UK–India CETA in bolstering economic collaboration between the two countries. He highlighted the manual as a unique tool that simplifies the intricate trade agreement into a practical roadmap for businesses operating across both markets. Jayaraman expressed the commitment of UKIBC to ensuring that businesses in both nations are well-equipped to grasp and capitalize on the potential benefits of the agreement.
HSBC India CEO Hitendra Dave lauded the trade agreement for offering enhanced certainty, improved market access, and stronger commercial partnerships. He encouraged businesses to utilize the manual as a foundational resource for expanding cross-border trade and investment. Recent years have witnessed a growth in trade engagement between India and the UK, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately 47.9 billion pounds ($56-60 billion) in the four quarters ending Q4 2025, reflecting a notable increase compared to previous years.
