Starmer in India with the biggest ever government trade delegation from the UK, to meet PM Modi tomorrow

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has created history by leading the largest-ever government trade mission from the U.K. to India.

Key industry and business leaders representing organisations such as Rolls-Royce, British Telecom, Diageo, London Stock Exchange Group, and British Airways are among the 125 CEOs, entrepreneurs, university Vice-Chancellors, and other prominent personalities who have joined Starmer on this trip to India.

Extending a warm welcome to the UK PM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he looks forward to their meeting tomorrow to advance the shared vision of a stronger and mutually prosperous future between India and the U.K.

“Welcome Prime Minister Keir Starmer on your historic first visit to India with the largest ever trade delegation from the U.K. Looking forward to our meeting tomorrow for advancing our shared vision of a stronger, mutually prosperous future”, Modi posted on the social media platform X.

The visit marks a significant milestone in the India-UK economic partnership, coming soon after the landmark UK-India trade deal in July, which lowered tariffs on British goods imported into India and allowed British businesses to expand their presence in India.  

“Major household names will join the Prime Minister’s delegation as he promises to secure opportunities for them to grow and expand into the Indian market – delivering growth and supporting jobs at home.  Growing SMEs and entrepreneurs from every region of the country will also travel with the Prime Minister, in recognition that the trade deal will break down barriers and support businesses of all shapes and sizes to trade more easily with India”, said a press release issued by the UK Prime Minister’s office on October 7.

The statement quoted Prime Minister Starmer saying that the trade deal with India in July was the best secured by any country. “It’s not just a piece of paper, it’s a launchpad for growth. With India set to become the third-largest economy in the world by 2028, and trade with them about to become quicker and cheaper, the opportunities waiting to be seized are unparalleled. That’s why I’ll be flying the flag for British business alongside 125 of our biggest household names in Mumbai this week - because growth in India for them means more choice, opportunity and jobs at home for the British people”, Starmer said.

According to risk management and business information firm Rubix Data Sciences, the UK ranks as India’s fourth-largest merchandise export destination, accounting for 3.3% of India’s overall exports. This share is expected to increase in the coming years due to the recently concluded trade agreement. Similarly, the UK, with a 1% share of India’s total merchandise imports and ranked 21st among India’s merchandise import partners in FY2025, also hopes to increase its share in the coming years.