UK Trade Minister Jonathan Reynolds announced a delegation of more than 200 firms, seven mayors and three cabinet ministers to India to capitalize on the newly effective Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) that took force on July 15, 2026.
Reynolds said the first wave of talks will focus on sectors where both economies have a comparative edge, such as electric vehicles, financial services, and food production. He added that the delegation’s presence in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru will spark negotiations that could translate into up to 5,000 new jobs across both countries.
During the interview, Reynolds praised his relationship with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, saying the personal rapport between the two men helped bring the pact to fruition. "The partnership we built over the last year will be the foundation for future cooperation," Reynolds told NDTV.
The delegation will also visit a Delhi‑based jewellery exporter who said the FTA could double his exports to the UK within 12 months. Local city mayors highlighted that the deal will bring investment beyond London, targeting regions with high growth potential.
The UK Parliament will review the implementation of CETA next month, while the delegation will negotiate deals over the next 90 days to ensure the agreement converts market access into tangible economic gains.