Britain's Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal are set to meet in New Delhi on Monday to revive discussions on a UK-India trade agreement, the British government announced on Sunday.
Reynolds emphasized the importance of securing a trade deal with India, which is poised to become the world's third-largest economy. "Securing a trade deal with what is soon-to-be the third biggest economy in the world is a no-brainer, and a top priority for me and this government," he stated. He added that his visit, alongside a top negotiating team, underscores the UK's commitment to progressing the negotiations.
Trade discussions between the two nations had previously stalled in March 2024, with the UK citing challenges in finalizing an agreement before India's general elections. The talks, which had been ongoing for several years under Britain's former Conservative government, faced hurdles such as high import duties on British whisky and India's request for increased visa access for students and business professionals.
The latest round of talks marks the first formal negotiations since Britain's Labour Party assumed power. The discussions will span two days, focusing on key economic issues. Currently, trade between India and the UK amounts to £41 billion ($51.8 billion), with both countries seeking to strengthen their economic partnership.