India and the UK have restarted free trade talks after nearly a year-long pause due to elections in both countries. UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds met India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Delhi to advance discussions on a deal that benefits both nations. Talks have been ongoing since 2022 but remain unresolved, with key issues including India’s high tariffs on Scotch whisky and UK visa rules for Indian students and professionals.

Securing an agreement is a priority for the UK’s new Labour government, which sees India as a key trading partner. India, set to become the world’s third-largest economy, aims to expand exports and improve access to the UK market. The UK has identified sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and professional services as key beneficiaries, while India seeks better mobility for professionals and faster visa processing.

While both sides recognise the complexities of negotiations, no deadline has been set. Previous UK government targets lapsed without success. India’s urgency has grown amid global trade shifts, including new US tariffs on imports. Modi’s government is working towards a $1 trillion export goal by 2030, making a UK deal significant.

As part of the UK delegation’s visit, business and investment meetings will take place across India. India has been expanding trade partnerships, securing a major agreement with the European Free Trade Association and preparing to resume talks with the EU. Strengthening economic ties with the UK remains a key objective.