Ash King

The Quick Answer The UK India Free Trade Agreement, in force since 15 July 2026, covers far more than tariff cuts. The agreement runs to 30 chapters and includes provisions on professional services, business mobility, digital trade, government procurement, and dedicated SME support. For North East businesses selling expertise rather than products, these overlooked chapters may prove more valuable than any tariff line. Almost every headline about the UK India Free Trade Agreement has focused...

The UK–India Free Trade Agreement came into force on 15 July 2026, and for North East businesses it is one of the biggest export opportunities in a generation. India has cut or reduced tariffs on around 90% of UK goods, its average tariff on UK exports is falling from 15% to 3%, and the deal is projected to add £25.5 billion to bilateral trade every year. But the opportunity is not evenly spread. Some North East sectors are far better placed than others to turn this deal into real orders....

A population approaching 1.5 billion. An economy worth more than US$4 trillion. UK–India trade of £47.9 billion. A new trade agreement expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion every year. For ambitious North East businesses, India is no longer a market to watch. It is a market to enter. From 12 to 16 October 2026, North East Mayor Kim McGuinness will join Mayors from across the North of England on the first joint mayoral-led trade mission to India. Supported by ISS Airview,...