New Delhi: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced the deployment of 1,000 CETA advisory personnel across India to help businesses maximise the benefits of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which will come into force on July 15, 2026.
He said the government will also upgrade the national trade portal to support exporters and businesses in understanding the agreement and accessing new opportunities. As a result, enterprises across the country will receive better guidance on using the agreement effectively.
Speaking during the 10th Annual UK-India Week in London, Goyal said the India-UK partnership has expanded beyond traditional trade. It now covers technology, sovereign AI, defence, clean energy and critical minerals. He added that the agreement is expected to increase bilateral trade by GBP 25.5 billion every year.
The minister also addressed the India Global Forum Capital Frontiers Forum and later attended a reception hosted by the High Commission of India and FICCI. He welcomed the largest and most geographically diverse Indian business delegation to visit the United Kingdom, including many first-time exporters from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
CETA advisory personnel to support exporters nationwide
Goyal said the India-UK CETA provides a five-year exemption from social security contributions for eligible Indian professionals working in the United Kingdom. Therefore, they can redirect those savings into interest-bearing, tax-free provident fund accounts in India.
He also highlighted regional partnerships such as Birmingham-Gujarat and Manchester-Maharashtra as important drivers of future economic cooperation. Moreover, he urged Indian businesses to adopt global quality standards and strengthen long-term partnerships with UK companies.
The minister said India offers trust, talent, innovation and a stable business environment for global investors. He added that the agreement will improve market access, strengthen the competitiveness of Indian enterprises, increase professional mobility and create fresh opportunities in trade, services and investment.
