India, UK Push for Final Phase of FTA Talks as Goyal Meets Top Leaders
- Piyush Goyal visits UK to fast-track the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and boost economic ties.
- He will meet top UK officials to discuss trade, investment, and innovation collaborations.
- Goyal will participate in India Global Forum events and engage with industry leaders to promote cross-border partnerships.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has commenced a high-level two-day visit to the United Kingdom, aimed at accelerating the ongoing India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and deepening bilateral economic cooperation.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Commerce, the visit comes at a crucial juncture in global trade dynamics, with both nations seeking to reinforce their strategic partnership and finalize a mutually beneficial FTA. The initiative aligns with the vision of the Indian and British Prime Ministers, who have reaffirmed their commitment to conclude the agreement.
During his visit, Goyal is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Jonathan Reynolds, UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to assess the progress in the FTA discussions and outline a time-bound roadmap for its conclusion and implementation.
He will also meet Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, to discuss macroeconomic cooperation, financial investments, and enhanced economic collaboration. Additionally, a meeting with Lisa Nandy, UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, will explore opportunities in the creative and innovation-driven sectors.
Goyal is set to participate in multiple high-level sessions at the India Global Forum (IGF), including the Mainstage Plenary, the Future Frontiers Forum, and a key roundtable titled ‘From Agreement to Action: UK–India FTA’, bringing together policymakers, investors, and business leaders.
The minister will engage with top CEOs and industry representatives from sectors like fintech, shipping, logistics, and advanced manufacturing to strengthen commercial ties and promote cross-border investment.
The visit signifies India's renewed focus on building a resilient and future-ready economic corridor with the UK.
