Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer held bilateral talks in Mumbai on October 9, 2025 during Starmer's first official visit to India. The two leaders celebrated the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed on July 24, 2025, which gives 99% of Indian exports to the UK duty-free access and reduces UK export tariffs by up to £400 million annually. Bilateral trade has reached USD 56 billion with a target to double by 2030. The two sides agreed to set up a joint AI Centre and a Connectivity and Innovation Centre. They also launched a landmark Digital and Technology Partnership as part of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
India-UK Free Trade Agreement: PM Modi and Starmer Issue Joint Statement on October 9, 2025
AQuick answer
Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Keir Starmer held bilateral talks in Mumbai on October 9, 2025 during Starmer's first official visit to India. The two leaders celebrated the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed on July 24, 2025, which gives 99% of Indian exports to the UK duty-free access and reduces UK export tariffs by up to £400 million annually. Bilateral trade has reached USD 56 billion with a target to double by 2030. The two sides agreed to set up a joint AI Centre and a Connectivity and Innovation Centre. They also launched a landmark Digital and Technology Partnership as part of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Key facts
- PM Modi and UK PM Starmer held bilateral talks in Mumbai on October 9, 2025.
- The India-UK FTA signed on July 24, 2025 gives 99% of Indian exports duty-free UK access.
- UK export tariffs will be reduced by up to GBP 400 million annually under the agreement.
- Bilateral trade has reached USD 56 billion with a target to double by 2030.
- A joint AI Centre and Digital and Technology Partnership were announced.
- This was PM Starmer's first official visit to India since becoming UK Prime Minister.
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CoverageInternationalSubjectEconomicExamBasic Computer Instructor · CET Graduation · CET Senior Secondary · EO/RO · LDC · Mahila Supervisor · Patwar · PTI · RAS · REET · RPSC SI · School Lecturer · Senior Computer Instructor · Senior Teacher · UPSC · Vanpal · BothSourceMEA India / GOV.UK / Al Jazeera
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Linked questionMedium
What percentage of Indian exports to the UK will receive duty-free access under the India-UK FTA?
Explanation · Correct answer C
The FTA gives 99% of Indian exports to the UK duty-free access.
Source: MEA India / GOV.UK / Al Jazeera
Frequently asked questions
When was the India-UK Free Trade Agreement signed and what were its key provisions?
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed on July 24, 2025, following years of negotiations. The FTA gives 99% of Indian exports to the UK duty-free access, while UK export tariffs will be reduced by up to GBP 400 million annually, significantly boosting bilateral trade.
What is the current bilateral trade volume between India and the UK and what is the 2030 target?
India-UK bilateral trade has reached USD 56 billion. The two countries have set a target to double bilateral trade by 2030, with the FTA expected to be a key driver of this growth by reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers.
What technology partnership was announced during PM Modi and PM Starmer's October 2025 bilateral talks?
During the bilateral talks in Mumbai on October 9, 2025, India and the UK announced the establishment of a joint AI Centre and a Digital and Technology Partnership. These initiatives reflect the two nations' intent to deepen cooperation in emerging technology and artificial intelligence.
What was the significance of UK PM Keir Starmer's visit to India in October 2025?
PM Keir Starmer's visit to India in October 2025 was his first official visit to India since becoming UK Prime Minister, underlining the importance both countries attach to the bilateral relationship. The visit built on the India-UK FTA signed in July 2025 and aimed to translate the trade agreement into a broader strategic partnership.
How does the India-UK FTA relate to India's broader trade liberalisation strategy?
The India-UK FTA is one of several trade agreements India has pursued as part of its broader trade engagement strategy, including deals with the UAE, Australia, and EFTA nations. It signals India's willingness to engage in bilateral free trade while protecting sensitive sectors and signals a shift from India's historically cautious approach to trade liberalisation.
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