UK Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch Urges Progress On India FTA

London: Newly appointed UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, who recently succeeded Rishi Sunak, has committed to continuing efforts towards a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India. Kemi Badenoch, formerly the UK Business and Trade Secretary, reiterated her support for strengthening UK-India trade ties at a recent event at the Indian High Commission in London.

Addressing the Indian diaspora on 12 November 2024, Kemi Badenoch emphasised the significance of the bilateral relationship, noting that the Conservative Party, even from the Opposition, remains dedicated to finalising an FTA with India. She acknowledged recent election cycles in both countries as delays but said "now is the time to get back to business."

UK and India surged by 9.7 percent over the past year, reaching GBP 42 billion.

Badenoch's remarks were echoed by Treasury Minister Tulip Siddiq at the London Global Convention organised by the Institute of Directors who highlighted the growing trade and investment between the two countries. According to new figures from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the trade flow between the UK and India has surged by 9.7 percent over the past year, reaching GBP 42 billion.

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Tulip Siddiq, who serves as the Economic Secretary to the Treasury and City Minister, expressed confidence in the Labour-led government's commitment to advancing the FTA and Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). She underscored the potential economic impact of such agreements, which could stimulate increased trade access, foster growth, and inspire entrepreneurial ventures between the two nations.
Both leaders stressed that the UK-India partnership, guided by the 2030 Roadmap, offers substantial opportunities for businesses in cities like London, Delhi, Manchester, Jaipur, and beyond, with the potential for significant contributions to both nations' economies.

Source-PTI