Political leaders hail India-UK free trade agreement as 'new chapter' for economic partnership

Politicians hail the signing of the epochal Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between the UK and India, which was signed in London on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on an official visit to the UK, called the agreement “a new chapter in the India–UK economic partnership”. “The signing of the CETA reflects our shared commitment to enhancing trade, driving inclusive growth and creating opportunities for farmers, women, youth, MSMEs, and professionals,” PM Modi wrote on X.

The Prime Minister also said that labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather & footwear, marine, gems and jewellery, organic chemicals, plastics, auto parts, artisanal products and services are poised for strong growth. “This will ensure further acceleration of India’s journey towards becoming a global manufacturing hub,” he added. The India–UK CETA, according to the PM, will add momentum to the ‘Make in India’-led growth and export promotion. This agreement will also provide Indian consumers with high-quality goods at competitive prices. “The future indeed holds the promise of greater prosperity and deeper ties between our nations.”

Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his leadership and commitment, which have been instrumental in achieving the historic agreement. “Historic Agreement Sealed! India and the UK sign a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), advancing a new era of economic partnership and opportunity under the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modiji,” he wrote on X. Goyal has also been instrumental in the negotiations that culminated in the signing of the CETA.

Goyal’s sentiments were echoed by Yogi Adityanath, chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. “Under the visionary leadership of Hon. PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, the signing of the historic #IndiaUKFTA marks a transformative milestone in New India’s journey,” he posted on X. Adityanath, whose state houses Kanpur—a hub for leather, which stands to benefit from the CETA—posted that with approximately 99% of Indian exports duty-free access to the UK, this landmark agreement will empower our farmers, MSMEs and exporters, boost manufacturing and unlock unprecedented growth across key sectors. “Gratitude to Pradhanmantri Ji for propelling India to new heights on the global stage!”.

Manohar Lal Khattar, the Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, and the Minister of Power, called the signing of the CETA a testament to India’s growing global economic leadership. “This is not just a trade agreement - it’s a strategic partnership that will boost job creation, strengthen supply chains, and elevate India’s position in the global economy,” he added.

Bhajanlal Sharma, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, stated that the signing of the CETA is a moment of immense pride for every Indian. According to Sharma—whose state stands to benefit from duty-free access to the textiles and clothing sector, particularly the dyers and embroiders from Jaipur—India has prioritised national interest in all trade deals. “This pact ensures zero duty on 99% of India’s trade value, while sensitive sectors remain protected. It’s a major milestone in India’s global economic diplomacy and will boost international trade opportunities,” he posted on X.

Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister of Gujarat, stated that the signing of the agreement is a landmark moment for India’s economic diplomacy. “This transformative deal will empower MSMEs, boost manufacturing, and open new avenues for sectors like agriculture, marine products, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and more. A big step towards a Viksit Bharat,” he wrote on X.