Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle held a bilateral meeting in Mumbai on Wednesday, reaffirming their commitment to deepen trade and investment ties between India and the United Kingdom.
The meeting marked a major step towards operationalising the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). Both Ministers agreed to reposition the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) to oversee the agreement’s implementation and delivery, ensuring swift and coordinated action to maximise its benefits.
The Ministers also reiterated their shared ambition to double bilateral trade by 2030, capitalising on the complementarities between the two economies in advanced manufacturing, digital trade, clean energy, and services. Emphasising the transformative potential of CETA, discussions focused on enhancing regulatory cooperation, tackling non-tariff barriers, and integrating supply chains.
The bilateral engagement was preceded by a series of sectoral roundtables across key priority areas, including Advanced Manufacturing, Consumer Goods, Food and Drink, Science, Technology and Innovation, Construction, Infrastructure & Clean Energy, and Financial, Professional & Business Services. These dialogues brought together business leaders from both nations and generated valuable insights to guide the implementation of the agreement.
The India–UK CEO Forum was also convened on the sidelines of the meeting, serving as a critical platform to identify new opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation. Co-chaired by prominent industry leaders from both countries, the Forum reinforced the shared commitment to advancing a modern and mutually beneficial economic partnership.
Both Ministers exchanged views on the global trade and economic outlook, acknowledging the need to build resilient and diversified supply chains amid global uncertainties. Goyal highlighted India’s role as a key driver of global economic growth, while Kyle described the UK’s agreement with India as one of its most significant trade deals, positioning British businesses to tap into India’s vast market.
The meeting concluded with a business plenary attended by senior industry representatives from both nations. Both sides reaffirmed their determination to fast-track the trade partnership, unlocking new opportunities for growth, investment, and innovation through the India–UK CETA.
