Syllabus: GS2/International Relations; GS3/Economy
Context
- The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) marks a significant milestone in India’s global trade strategy, signaling its transition from a cost-driven export economy to a value-creating powerhouse.
| Key Points in the India-UK FTA – Zero-Duty Access for Indian Exports: The deal eliminates import tariffs on over 99.3% of animal products, 99.8% of vegetable/oil products, and 99.7% of processed foods, making Indian goods more competitive in the UK market. – Expanding Trade Partnership: The UK currently imports goods worth $815.5 billion, primarily from China (12%), the US (11%), and Germany (9%). 1. India holds about 1.8% share ($15.3 billion) in UK imports, ranking as the UK’s 12th largest trading partner. – India-UK Trade Goals for 2030: As of 2024, India-UK trade in goods amounted to $23.3 billion, with $8.06 billion in UK exports to India. 1. The FTA sets an ambitious target of reaching $120 billion in trade by 2030. 2. UK Export From India: Pearls, nuclear reactors, spirits, and vehicles. 3. UK Import From India: Machinery, mineral fuels, pharmaceuticals, apparel, and footwear. – Strategic Trade Partnerships: The agreement strengthens the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, fostering trade, investment, innovation, and job creation. 1. India is negotiating FTAs with the EU and the US, targeting duty-free access to high-value markets. |
India-UK FTA: Transformative Milestone for Indian Industry
- Levelling the Playing Field for Indian Exporters: Indian exporters in sectors like textiles, apparel, leather, marine products, and toys have long faced tariff disadvantages in the UK.
- The FTA eliminates this gap by offering zero-duty access for nearly 99% of Indian tariff lines, aligning India with competitors from the EU, CPTPP, and countries like Bangladesh.
- Strategic Market Access Without Sacrificing Autonomy: India’s approach to the FTA has been calibrated and protective. It allows duty-free access to 85% of UK goods over 10 years.
- It ensures that ‘Make in India’ and employment-intensive sectors remain protected.
- Unlocking the Services Sector Potential:
- Greater market access for IT, telecom, education, and financial services.
- Ease of professional mobility, especially through:
- Recognition of qualifications for Indian professionals (architects, engineers, accountants, etc.)
- Double Contribution Convention: Exempts Indian professionals from UK social security payments on short-term assignments.
- It is a game-changer for India’s knowledge-driven exports, enhancing both competitiveness and mobility.
- Deepening Bilateral Cooperation: It paves the way for value chain innovation with global aspirations, with the UK’s strengths in design and advanced manufacturing, and India’s scale and talent. It includes:
- Investment & joint R&D
- Technology transfer & co-manufacturing
- Intellectual Property (IP) creation
- Embedding Ethical and Sustainable Trade: For the first time in an Indian FTA, topics like Labour rights, Environmental protection, Consumer welfare, Gender equity, Anti-corruption are covered, signaling India’s maturing economic identity, aligning trade with global values of transparency, sustainability, and inclusivity.
- Strategic Imperatives for Indian Businesses:
- Develop UK-specific market strategies rooted in consumer insights and localisation.
- Invest in certifications, ESG compliance, and product innovation.
- Reskill talent, especially in areas like finance, legal, logistics, and marketing.
- Form joint ventures and innovation partnerships with UK firms.
- Build feedback loops from UK market performance to refine offerings.
Challenges & Concerns
- Protection of Sensitive Sectors: India has excluded tariff reductions for sensitive agricultural products like dairy, apples, cheese, oats, and vegetable oils.
- Industrial goods such as plastics, diamonds, smartphones, and optical fibers remain protected to safeguard domestic industries.
- Regulatory & Compliance Issues: The agreement includes provisions on digital trade, intellectual property, labor, and environmental standards, requiring policy adjustments and compliance measures.
- Businesses will need to adapt to new trade regulations and streamline customs procedures.
- Long-Term Trade Balance & Economic Impact: While India enjoys a positive trade balance with the UK, concerns remain about whether the FTA will sustain this advantage in the long run.
- The impact on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and domestic manufacturers will need careful monitoring.
- Impact on Domestic Industries: While the FTA opens new opportunities, Indian manufacturers may face increased competition from UK imports, particularly in automobiles and medical devices.
Looking Ahead
- The India-UK FTA supports India’s Viksit Bharat vision by pushing Indian businesses up the global value chain, creating employment, and enhancing competitiveness.
- It represents a strategic step forward, balancing economic growth with domestic industry protection.
- As India navigates its evolving global trade role, effective implementation and policy safeguards will be crucial in ensuring long-term success.
| Daily Mains Practice Question [Q] How does the India-UK FTA reflect India’s evolving role in global trade, and what challenges might India face as it positions itself as a leader in international economic growth? |
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