India and the United Kingdom will implement the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and Social Security Agreement from July 15, 2026, boosting trade, investments, services, and professional mobility.

BulletsIn

• India and the United Kingdom will enforce the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and Double Contribution Convention from July 15, 2026, strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.
• The trade agreement grants zero-duty access to approximately 99% of Indian tariff lines, covering nearly the entire value of exports entering the UK market.
• Key export sectors benefiting from tariff elimination include textiles, leather products, footwear, engineering goods, auto components, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and marine products.
• The agreement was concluded after fourteen negotiation rounds and signed in London during July 2025, marking a major milestone in bilateral relations.
• India has protected sensitive agricultural sectors including dairy products, cereals, millets, edible oils, oilseeds, apples, and selected vegetable products from import competition.
• The agreement covers 30 chapters addressing goods, services, investments, digital trade, financial services, intellectual property, sustainability, innovation, and government procurement.
• Indian professionals including business visitors, intra-corporate transferees, investors, contractual service suppliers, and independent professionals will receive enhanced mobility opportunities.
• The Double Contribution Convention exempts eligible Indian employees and employers from dual social security contributions for up to five years during temporary UK assignments.