The operationalisation of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was marked at a programme held at Vanijya Bhawan, where Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal presented the Certificate of Origin to Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), signifying the commencement of preferential apparel exports to the United Kingdom under the landmark agreement.
The programme was attended by UK High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron, senior officials of the Department of Commerce and industry representatives. Dr. A. Sakthivel congratulated Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and High Commissioner Lindy Cameron on the operationalisation of the India–UK CETA and described it as a landmark achievement that would significantly strengthen bilateral trade and create new opportunities for India’s apparel exporters.
Speaking at the event, Dr. A. Sakthivel said, “This is a truly historic moment for the Indian apparel industry. The UK has been one of our most valued and longstanding trading partners. I still remember making my first apparel shipment to the UK in 1982, and since then our relationship has only grown stronger. Today, India and the UK share a deep partnership built on trust and mutual confidence. With the India–UK CETA now in force, I am confident our apparel exports to the UK will grow significantly, strengthening bilateral trade and creating new opportunities for both our industries.”
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said the coming into force of the India–UK CETA marks a major milestone in India–UK economic relations and reflects the shared commitment of both countries to expanding trade, investment and economic cooperation. “The real success of this agreement will be seen in how effectively our industry utilises the opportunities it creates. We look forward to seeing Indian exporters make the best use of the India–UK CETA to expand their presence in the UK market,” he said.
UK High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said the implementation of the India–UK CETA reflects the strength of the India–UK partnership and will create new opportunities for businesses in both countries by expanding market access, strengthening supply chains and deepening bilateral trade.
Dr. Sakthivel reaffirmed AEPC’s commitment to working closely with the Government and all stakeholders to ensure that Indian apparel exporters fully leverage the opportunities created by the agreement and further strengthen India’s position as a preferred global apparel sourcing destination.
The India–UK CETA provides zero-duty market access for Indian apparel exports to the UK, significantly enhancing India’s competitiveness in one of its key export markets and opening new avenues for trade, investment and employment across the textile and apparel value chain.
