Themed ‘Gateway to Growth: Harnessing Opportunities under India–UK CETA’, the programme brought together senior government officials, diplomats, Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), industry leaders, and trade associations to deliberate on the transformative potential of the agreement for Indian exporters. The outreach event marked a crucial step towards strengthening India–UK trade ties and positioning Indian exporters to make the most of the CETA agreement.
Anna Shotbolt, deputy trade commissioner, South Asia, British High Commission in India, described the CETA agreement as a ‘milestone in bilateral trade ties’ and encouraged Indian exporters to align with sustainability and quality standards to capture premium segments of the UK market, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a press release.
The event placed strong emphasis on sectoral perspectives through active participation from India’s leading Export Promotion Councils. APEDA chairman Abhishek Dev, highlighted the growing demand for Indian agri and processed food products in the UK, noting that CETA provides a gateway for India to tap into niche categories such as ethnic foods, organic produce, and ready-to-eat products. Director General, FIEO, Dr Ajay Sahai, stressed the importance of multi-sector opportunities, urging exporters to look beyond traditional markets and adopt digital tools to reach UK buyers more efficiently.
From the manufacturing and creative sectors, EPC leaders drew attention to their industries’ strengths. Vice-chairman, GJEPC, Shaunak Parikh, spoke about positioning India’s gems and jewellery in the UK’s luxury retail landscape, while additional executive director, EPCH, Rajesh Rawat, highlighted how handicrafts and carpets can carve out niche spaces in premium UK markets. Executive director, EEPC, Adhip Mitra, underscored the potential of engineering goods and auto components, stressing innovation and compliance as keys to success. General manager, AEPC, Dr Saurabh Kumar, emphasised India’s competitiveness in apparel and textiles, noting how CETA can boost exports if exporters align with sustainability and ethical sourcing standards.
The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) and HSBC also shared their views on fostering industry collaborations and building resilient supply chains to deepen India–UK trade.
ALCHEMPro News Desk (RR)
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