Business leaders emphasize new opportunities for trade, investment, and export competitiveness under the historic pact
NEW DELHI, July 24, 2025: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has welcomed the signing of the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), calling it a transformative milestone in India’s evolving trade architecture and its vision for deeper global economic integration.
Commenting on the agreement, FICCI President Harsha Vardhan Agarwal said, “The signing of the India–UK FTA marks a key milestone in India’s trade architecture, aligning with its vision of deeper global economic integration. It complements the objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat by empowering domestic industries to scale globally, engage competitively, and leverage value chains more effectively. FICCI welcomes this development as a step toward a more resilient and opportunity-driven trade ecosystem that benefits both economies and their people.”
Echoing this sentiment, Anant Goenka, Senior Vice President, FICCI, described the deal as a watershed moment in the bilateral partnership. “The India–UK FTA holds significant importance for businesses, offering enhanced market access and greater certainty for Indian exporters. This comprehensive deal promises vast opportunities for Indian enterprises and lays the foundation for much higher bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
”Dr. Anish Shah, Immediate Past President, FICCI, called the agreement a blueprint for a modern, values-led partnership. “This landmark trade agreement is not just a win for trade but a model for innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth. As Indian industry expands its global footprint, we look forward to contributing meaningfully to this next chapter of UK–India cooperation.”
Highlighting the strategic significance of the deal, Jyoti Vij, Director General, FICCI, said, “The India–UK FTA is a historic milestone and a testimony to India’s growing influence in the global economy. It will boost bilateral relations, drive trade and investment, and further strengthen economic ties between the two nations. The business community is keen to leverage this opportunity to deepen trade partnerships.”
Adding an industry perspective, Harish Ahuja, Chairman, FICCI Foreign Trade and Trade Facilitation Committee and Managing Director, Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd., emphasized the potential benefits for labour-intensive sectors. “The agreement is poised to enhance India’s export competitiveness, particularly in sectors like textiles and apparel. This milestone achievement under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister will create new prospects for domestic manufacturing, accelerate export growth, and deepen India’s integration into global value chains.”
The FICCI leadership reaffirmed its commitment to support businesses in maximizing the benefits of the agreement and strengthening India’s position in global trade networks.
About FICCI
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is India’s leading business association, representing diverse sectors of the Indian economy. Established in 1927, FICCI works closely with government, industry, and stakeholders to drive sustainable economic growth, trade, and innovation.