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British Media Hails India-UK FTA as Post-Brexit Win
British media outlets have praised the newly signed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the United Kingdom and India as a major success in the UK’s post-Brexit trade strategy. The agreement, finalized on July 24, is being described in the UK press as a “bumper deal” and “the most significant since Brexit,” giving Britain much-needed momentum in its effort to forge independent trade relationships outside the European Union.
British Industries Celebrate Market Access
British newspapers highlighted the benefits for domestic exporters, particularly in sectors like Scotch whisky, luxury automobiles, cosmetics, and machinery. The deal will see India gradually reduce tariffs on 90% of British goods, helping UK exporters tap into one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets. Commentators have noted that some of the steepest tariffs—like the 150% duty on Scotch whisky—will now be phased out, opening up the Indian market to premium UK products.
UK Press Applauds Strategic Victory
Editorials in major UK publications described the agreement as not just an economic move, but a geopolitical one. Analysts noted that striking a trade deal with India—often seen as a tough negotiator—is a diplomatic and trade policy milestone for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s new government. The deal is also viewed as a rebuttal to Brexit critics, who doubted the UK’s ability to replace lost EU market access with deals of comparable value.
Indian Exports Get Duty-Free Access
From India’s perspective, 99% of its exports to the UK will now enter duty-free. This includes labour-intensive goods such as textiles, leather, gems, and processed foods. British media highlighted that the deal benefits Indian exporters while also giving UK consumers access to cheaper imported goods.
Long-Term Growth Forecasted
According to UK economic reports, the FTA is projected to add £4.8 billion annually to the British economy and push total bilateral trade to over £25 billion by 2040. Business leaders in the UK have welcomed the deal, calling it a turning point that could energize British exports and manufacturing.
The British press continues to frame the India-UK FTA as a rare win in the complex world of global trade and a much-needed boost for post-Brexit Britain.
