British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, on his inaugural visit to India since taking office, declared on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, that the opportunities presented by the India-U.K. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are truly exceptional and ready to be grasped.
He enthusiastically described the trade deal as a ‘launchpad’ poised to significantly boost bilateral trade and foster economic growth, especially given India’s projected rise to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028.
The Prime Minister arrived in Mumbai this morning for a two-day visit, accompanied by an impressive delegation of 125 leading figures from the U.K., including top business leaders, innovative entrepreneurs, and esteemed university Vice-Chancellors.
Mr. Starmer is scheduled to engage in comprehensive discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, October 9, 2025, aiming to further strengthen and expand the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Reflecting on the progress, the British Prime Minister noted, “We finalized a significant trade agreement with India in July—a deal unmatched by any other country. But this is just the beginning.”
He elaborated, stating, “This isn’t merely a document; it’s a dynamic launchpad for exponential growth. As India prepares to become the third-largest global economy by 2028, and with trade set to become faster and more cost-effective, the potential for seizing new opportunities is truly without equal.” Mr. Starmer also highlighted that India’s economic expansion translates directly into increased choices, stability, and job creation for citizens back in Britain.
This visit by the British Prime Minister follows a mere two-and-a-half months after both nations officially signed the historic free trade pact. This agreement is designed to enhance market access, reduce tariffs, and aims to double bilateral trade by the year 2030. The crucial trade deal was finalized during Prime Minister Modi’s trip to London in July.
According to a British statement regarding Mr. Starmer’s visit, the goal is to capitalize on the positive momentum generated by the U.K.-India trade deal. This pact is expected to unlock significant opportunities for British businesses, granting them enhanced access to one of the globe’s most rapidly expanding economies.
The statement further elaborated: “With the signing of the pivotal U.K.-India trade deal in July, which will lead to lower tariffs on British goods entering India, a clear pathway has emerged for British enterprises to dramatically accelerate their trade activities with one of the world’s most dynamic economies.”
Notable industry leaders, including executives from major corporations like Rolls Royce, British Telecom, Diageo, the London Stock Exchange, and British Airways, are accompanying Mr. Starmer as part of his high-profile delegation.
Peter Kyle, the U.K.’s Business and Trade Secretary, commented on the rapid progress: “We have unequivocally demonstrated that our ambition to expand trade with India knows no bounds. In less than a year, we’ve transitioned from merely restarting negotiations on a deal to bringing 125 brilliant business leaders directly to India’s bustling commercial capital.”
He emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the agreement, stating, “Our agreement stands as the most favorable deal any nation has ever achieved with India, positioning British businesses at the forefront for accessing this immense and continually expanding market. We are now moving swiftly, deploying every available resource to prepare businesses to fully capitalize on the substantial benefits we’ve locked in. Once the deal is enacted, it will deliver significant growth, create jobs, and foster prosperity right here at home.”
As per the official statement, India’s average tariff on British goods is set to decrease significantly, from 15% to just three percent. This reduction will make it considerably easier for British companies to sell a wide range of products—from soft drinks and cosmetics to automobiles and medical devices—into the vibrant Indian market.
The document highlighted a particular boon for whisky producers, who will see tariffs plummet immediately from 150% to 75%, followed by a further reduction to 40% over the next decade. This strategic advantage will position the U.K. favorably against international rivals in this sector.