Piyush Goyal Announces Deployment of 1,000 Advisors to Help Businesses Leverage India-UK CETA Benefits.
London:
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has announced the deployment of 1,000 advisory personnel across India to assist businesses in effectively utilising the benefits of the upcoming India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The initiative aims to ensure wider awareness and smoother access to opportunities created under the landmark trade pact.
The announcement came during a series of high-level engagements at the 10th Annual UK-India Week in London, where Goyal highlighted the growing depth of bilateral economic relations ahead of the agreement’s implementation on July 15, 2026.
India–UK CETA to Boost Trade by GBP 25.5 Billion
Describing CETA as India’s most comprehensive free trade agreement to date, Goyal said the pact is expected to increase bilateral trade by approximately GBP 25.5 billion annually. He added that the agreement marks a significant step in strengthening economic ties between India and the United Kingdom.
The minister noted that the partnership between the two countries now extends well beyond traditional trade and includes emerging sectors such as technology, artificial intelligence, sovereign AI, critical minerals, defence and clean energy.
Advisory Network and Digital Trade Support
To maximise the benefits of the agreement, the government will deploy 1,000 advisory personnel across the country and upgrade the official trade facilitation portal. These measures are designed to help exporters, especially from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, understand regulatory requirements, explore market opportunities and expand global outreach.
Goyal emphasised that the initiative will support both established exporters and first-time participants entering international markets under the new trade framework.
Strengthening Regional and Sub-National Linkages
Speaking at the India Global Forum Capital Frontiers Forum, the minister highlighted the importance of regional partnerships in driving bilateral growth. He specifically mentioned emerging economic linkages such as Birmingham–Gujarat and Manchester–Maharashtra, describing them as key drivers of future cooperation between the two countries.
He also welcomed the participation of a large and diverse Indian business delegation visiting the UK, noting the strong representation from small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs from smaller towns.
Benefits for Indian Professionals
Goyal also outlined key advantages for Indian professionals under the agreement, including a five-year exemption from social security contributions for eligible workers in the United Kingdom. He said this provision would significantly enhance take-home earnings and allow professionals to channel savings into provident fund accounts in India.
Focus on Brand India and Global Competitiveness
Encouraging Indian businesses to expand their global presence, Goyal said India today represents trust, talent, inclusive growth and stability. He urged companies to adopt global standards, strengthen innovation and position themselves as early movers in international markets.
He further stated that India’s sustained economic growth and expanding global engagement offer significant opportunities for partnerships, co-creation and investment.
Expanding India–UK Strategic Partnership
Goyal underscored that the India–UK partnership is evolving into a comprehensive strategic relationship, with growing cooperation in high-value sectors such as advanced manufacturing, digital technology and clean energy. He said the CETA would improve market access, enhance competitiveness, facilitate mobility of professionals and create new opportunities across goods, services and investment.
The minister concluded that the agreement represents a major milestone in India’s trade diplomacy and will play a crucial role in strengthening long-term economic ties between India and the United Kingdom.
