India-UK Trade Deal Projected to Reach $115 Billion by 2030

The India-UK free trade agreement, which took effect on July 15, 2026, is projected to increase bilateral trade from $58 billion in 2025-26 to $115 billion by 2030. A study by the Assocham Global Research and Strategy Centre indicates the pact could generate between 700,000 and 1 million new jobs, with the highest impact expected in labor-intensive industries including textiles, pharmaceuticals, leather, automotive, and engineering goods.

The agreement leverages the UK's high-value services and advanced technology alongside India's extensive market and micro, small, and medium enterprise base. Nirmal K Minda, President of the Associated Chambers of Commerce & Industry of India, stated that realizing these gains depends on Indian businesses maintaining global competitiveness. He noted that companies must adhere to international sustainability standards, product quality benchmarks, and certification requirements.

To meet these criteria, Minda emphasized the necessity of continued investments in supply chains and infrastructure, as well as the implementation of ease-of-doing-business reforms.