The UK–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has now come into force, opening the door to new opportunities for businesses importing and exporting between the UK and India.
With the agreement taking effect on 15 July 2026, tariffs on a wide range of goods are being reduced or removed, making it potentially more attractive for UK businesses to source from India and for Indian businesses to expand their exports into the UK. India has agreed to remove or reduce tariffs across 90% of tariff lines, with further reductions being phased in over the coming years.
What does this mean for importers and exporters?
For businesses already trading with India, the agreement could provide an opportunity to review existing supply chains and identify potential savings.
For businesses not currently trading with India, lower tariffs and improved market access could make it worth exploring new suppliers, customers and markets.
But securing the benefit of a FTA isn’t simply about the tariff. Getting the goods from A to B efficiently, reliably and compliantly remains critical.
That’s where AGI Global Logistics can make a real difference.
India trade: more opportunity, more logistics
Whether you’re importing components, raw materials or finished goods from India, or exporting British products into the Indian market, there are a number of considerations beyond the headline tariff:
- Which transport solution offers the best balance of cost and transit time?
- Are the goods eligible for preferential tariff treatment?
- Do they meet the relevant rules of origin?
- Is the customs documentation correct?
- Which ports, airports and routes offer the best solution?
- Could consolidation or alternative shipping options reduce costs?
- Are your current suppliers and customers prepared for increased volumes?
The FTA provides the opportunity — but a well-managed supply chain is what turns that opportunity into a commercial advantage. If your business currently imports from or exports to India, now is a good time to review your logistics arrangements. And if India isn’t currently part of your supply chain, the new trading environment could be a reason to start exploring the possibilities.