Government to deploy 1,000 export advisors as India-UK CETA comes into force from July 15, aiming to help businesses and first-time exporters tap new global opportunities.
Highlights
- • 1,000 export advisory personnel to be deployed across India.
- • India-UK CETA to take effect from July 15, 2026.
- • Bilateral trade projected to rise by GBP 25.5 billion annually.
- • Indian professionals to receive a five-year UK social security exemption under the agreement.
- • Tier-2 and Tier-3 exporters expected to gain wider access to the UK market.
New Delhi: The Centre is preparing to strengthen India’s export ecosystem by deploying 1,000 export advisory personnel across the country ahead of the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) on July 15, 2026. The move is aimed at helping exporters, especially small businesses and first-time exporters, fully utilise the opportunities created by the landmark trade pact.
Announcing the initiative during the 10th Annual UK-India Week in London, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the government will also upgrade the national trade portal to provide businesses with better access to information, guidance and export-related services.
The India-UK CETA, described as India’s most comprehensive free trade agreement to date, is expected to boost bilateral trade by GBP 25.5 billion annually. The agreement is designed to improve market access for businesses, enhance the competitiveness of Indian products and services, increase investment flows and make it easier for professionals to work across both countries.
Addressing the India Global Forum Capital Frontiers Forum, Goyal said the India-UK partnership is expanding beyond conventional trade into high-growth sectors such as technology, sovereign AI, critical minerals, defence and clean energy. He noted that the evolving relationship reflects the growing strategic importance of economic cooperation between the two nations.
The minister also welcomed one of the largest Indian business delegations to visit the UK, with strong participation from companies based in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities alongside several first-time exporters. He said the agreement would create new opportunities for businesses from across India to access international markets.
For Indian professionals working in the UK, one of the major benefits of the agreement is a five-year exemption from UK social security contributions for eligible individuals. According to Goyal, the savings can instead be invested in interest-bearing, tax-free provident fund accounts in India, providing long-term financial benefits.
Highlighting India’s position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, Goyal urged businesses to strengthen Brand India, adopt international quality standards and build long-term partnerships with UK companies. He said the India-UK CETA would play a key role in accelerating exports, investment and economic growth while creating fresh opportunities for Indian enterprises on the global stage.
