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What the UK–India FTA Means for North East Businesses. And How to Get Involved in the October Trade Mission

Handshake with India and UK flags on dark blue background; text reads UK-INDIA Free Trade Agreement, 15th July 2026.

Today, 15 July 2026, the UK–India Free Trade Agreement officially came into force.

It is the UK's most significant bilateral trade deal since leaving the European Union and for North East businesses, it is one of the biggest commercial opportunities in a generation.

At ISS Airview, based at Newcastle International Airport, we have been building the UK–India corridor for years. Here is what the deal means, who it benefits, and what you need to do right now.


WHAT THE DEAL MEANS IN NUMBERS

  • Bilateral trade forecast to increase by £25.5 billion a year in the long run

  • £4.8 billion boost to UK GDP annually

  • India's average tariff on UK goods reduces from 15% to 3%

  • 99% of Indian exports to the UK become duty-free from today

  • 90% of Indian tariff lines opened for UK products

  • £400 million in tariff reductions for UK exporters in year one alone

  • 20,000 new visas and a five-year exemption from double social security contributions for professionals moving between both countries

Kim McGuinness is speaking about the UK India FTA 2026

WHO BENEFITS

North East exporters, manufacturers, engineers, tech companies, professional services, food and drink, creative industries and retailers all benefit from reduced or eliminated Indian tariffs from today.

Indian businesses entering the UK duty-free access on 99% of exports to the UK, reduced cost of setting up a UK entity, and a structured soft landing pathway through ISS Airview at Newcastle International Airport.

SMEs specifically the FTA includes a pioneering standalone chapter dedicated to small and medium-sized enterprises, making it easier for smaller firms to navigate both markets.


Infographic for UK-India free trade agreement with UK and India flags, handshake over map, teal icons, and trade benefits text.

FAQs

When did the UK–India FTA come into force? 15 July 2026. It was signed in London on 24 July 2025 and both governments completed ratification ahead of today's activation date.


Do I need to register to benefit from the lower tariffs? Yes. UK businesses must complete a one-time registration with HMRC through the Origin Registration portal before they can claim preferential tariff rates. Do this immediately at gov.uk.


Indian PM Narendra Modi and UK leader shake hands in a formal room with India and UK flags, a cordial meeting mood.

Does my product qualify for preferential rates? Not automatically. Your products must meet the Rules of Origin requirements. Check your commodity codes at trade-tariff.service.gov.uk to confirm eligibility.


I am an Indian business, how do I enter the UK market now the deal is live? ISS Airview offers a structured, end-to-end UK market entry pathway. From validating your market opportunity to having a fully operational UK company in as little as 48 hours. We handle everything under one roof.


Business presentation in a bright office; woman speaks to seated audience beside screen reading A Welcoming Home to Global Trade.

What is the October Trade Mission? The North East Mayor Kim McGuinness is leading a Trade Mission to India in October 2026. It is the most direct way for North East businesses to build relationships, explore new markets and showcase the region in India. Applications are now open.


How do I get ISS Airview's help? Get in touch with our team at grow.global@issairview.com or book a free 20-minute consultation through our website:



WHAT TO DO RIGHT NOW

  1. Register with HMRC for origin declarations - gov.uk

  2. Check your product eligibility under Rules of Origin

  3. Contact ISS Airview to explore your India market opportunity

  4. Apply for the October North East Trade Mission to India


The corridor is open. The question is whether you walk through it.
 
 
 
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