UK and India Race to Finalize Trade Deal as Starmer Begins Visit

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer started his two-day visit to India on Wednesday. His goal is simple — to fast-track the new trade deal between both nations. He said he wanted the agreement implemented as soon as “humanly possible.”
Starmer arrived in Mumbai with over 100 leaders from business, culture, and education. The high-level group includes executives from BP, Rolls-Royce, and BT. They aim to explore investment opportunities created by the new trade agreement.
Britain and India signed the deal in July during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to London. The pact cuts tariffs on textiles, whisky, and cars. It also opens new markets for companies in both countries.
Negotiations concluded in May after three years of stop-start talks. Both sides accelerated efforts to finalize the deal amid global tariff changes triggered by the US.

Focus on Growth and Opportunity

The trade deal links the world’s fifth- and sixth-largest economies. It aims to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion ($34 billion) by 2040. However, UK officials said this projection is only the beginning.
Starmer called the agreement a “huge opportunity” for both countries. Speaking to business delegates, he said his team will act quickly to put the deal in place. “Our job is to help you seize these opportunities,” he added.
Starmer will meet Prime Minister Modi on Thursday. Both leaders plan to ratify the deal and implement it within the next year.
Growth remains Starmer’s main focus ahead of a challenging November budget. Business leaders have urged him to avoid new taxes and instead promote expansion through trade.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said, “The UK must build stronger global ties while managing economic challenges. We can achieve both.”