The UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer landed in Mumbai on October 8, leading a 125-member delegation of CEOs, entrepreneurs, university leaders, and cultural icons.
The visit aims to deepen economic ties with India following the July trade agreement.
The UK-India trade deal reduces tariffs and opens access to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. British companies like Rolls Royce, British Airways, and Diageo joined the mission to explore expansion in India’s booming market.
Small and medium enterprises from across the UK also joined the trip. The deal improves customs processes and digital infrastructure, helping businesses of all sizes trade more easily with India.
British Airways announced a third daily flight between Delhi and London Heathrow by 2026. Manchester Airport will launch a direct route to Delhi, boosting exports, tourism, and job creation.
Fourteen UK university Vice Chancellors joined the delegation to tap into India’s growing demand for higher education. Cultural institutions such as the British Film Institute and National Theatre aim to build creative partnerships.
The Prime Minister will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen cooperation in technology, artificial intelligence, and defence. India’s tech sector is projected to reach £1 trillion by 2030.
The UK-India trade deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually. UK exports to India could grow by nearly 60%, benefiting consumers and businesses in both countries.
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