The India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), finalized in July 2025, promises to be a game changer for Indian exporters, manufacturers, and professionals. By unlocking duty-free or reduced-tariff access to the UK market—a G7 economy and one of the world’s largest importers—several Indian industries stand to gain substantial advantages. Below is an SEO-optimized deep-dive into which sectors in India are poised for the biggest boost from the India-UK FTA.

1. Agriculture and Processed Food

• 95% of Indian agricultural and processed food exports will now have zero import duties in the UK. This includes fruits, vegetables, cereals, spices (like turmeric and pepper), ready-to-eat meals, pickles, and pulses.
• Newer products such as jackfruit, millets, and organic herbs also get a stronger foothold in UK retail shelves.
• Indian farmers benefit from premium prices in a premium market, while sensitive items like dairy and apples remain protected.

2. Marine Products

• India’s coastline states—Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Kerala, Tamil Nadu—will see massive growth in seafood exports like shrimp and tuna, which previously attracted duties of 4.2–8.5% but now enjoy duty-free access.
• The UK’s $5.4 billion seafood import market shares new opportunities with India’s blue economy.

3. Textiles, Apparel & Leather

• Full duty-free access is granted to over 1,100 textile tariff lines (ready-made garments, home textiles, carpets, handicrafts), eliminating the UK tariff disadvantage India previously had against Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Pakistan.
• Exports of footwear and leather goods are also set to climb, closing the gap with other leading global suppliers.

4. Engineering and Electronics

• India’s engineering exports to the UK are projected to nearly double, aided by the removal of tariffs (up to 18%) on sectors like machinery, auto parts, electrical equipment, and base metals.
• Electronics—including smartphones, inverters, optical cables—will see export momentum with zero-duty treatment.

5. Pharmaceutical Products & Medical Devices

• Generic medicines, medical devices (ECG, X-ray machines, surgical instruments) from India are now more competitive in the UK due to zero tariffs.
• The deal helps Indian firms expand their share in a pharmaceutical market worth $30 billion in UK imports.

6. Chemicals & Petrochemicals

• Export growth in chemicals is estimated at 30–40% as over 1,200 chemical tariff lines see duties slashed or eliminated. Indian specialty chemicals and base metals now compete head-to-head in the UK.

7. Gems and Jewellery

• Indian gems and jewellery—especially diamonds, gold ornaments, and precious stones—receive a significant boost, with exports projected to double rapidly, targeting the UK’s robust $3 billion jewellery market.

8. Services Sector

• Sectors like IT, IT-enabled services, financial, legal, education, and professional consulting will find it easier to offer services in the UK.
• The FTA streamlines mobility for Indian professionals (engineers, architects, chefs, musicians) and eases recognition of qualifications.
• Indian professionals and firms gain wide-ranging, quota-free access across 36 service sectors, enhancing revenue and job growth.

9. MSMEs, Startups, and Youth Entrepreneurs

• The FTA is designed to broaden global value chain access for Indian MSMEs and startups, specifically in innovation, tech, and creative industries. Women and youth entrepreneurs gain more inclusive market entry opportunities.

Quick Reference: Sectors & Key Gains

Sector	Key Benefits
Agriculture & Processed Food	95% export lines duty-free, premium access, diversification
Marine Products	Duty-free on shrimp, tuna, fishmeal; $5.4B new market
Textiles, Apparel, Leather	1,100+ tariff lines duty-free, stronger UK market share
Engineering & Electronics	Tariff removal (up to 18%), export potential nearly doubled
Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices	Zero-tariff for generics, equipment—stronger competitiveness
Chemicals & Petrochemicals	30–40% export growth, 1,200 tariff lines duty-free
Gems & Jewellery	Exports likely to double: increased access to UK market
IT & Professional Services	Easier business, skilled migration, and credentialing
MSMEs & Startups	Broader access, simplified processes, supports innovation

Conclusion

The India–UK FTA ushers in a new era for Indian exporters, manufacturers, and service providers. By enabling nearly 99% duty-free access for Indian goods and greater mobility for professionals, the agreement will fuel economic growth, job creation, and global competitiveness across critical sectors.

If you’re in any of these industries, now is the time to strategize and expand your presence in the dynamic UK market—where opportunity is set to grow like never before.

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or financial advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content regarding the India-UK Free Trade Agreement and its impact on various sectors, the dynamic nature of trade policies and market conditions means details may change. Readers are advised to consult with relevant experts or official sources before making business or investment decisions based on this information. The author and publisher disclaim any liability for losses or damages arising from the use of this blog.