UK PM Starmer Begins Trade Mission to India After Historic FTA

MUMBAI — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in India on Wednesday for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening economic ties after the signing of a landmark UK-India free trade agreement earlier this year. The visit marks his first major overseas trade mission since taking office and is seen as a key step in advancing Britain’s post-Brexit global trade agenda.

Accompanied by more than 100 leaders from the business, cultural, and academic sectors, Starmer is focusing on promoting the opportunities created by the new trade deal, which was finalized in July 2025. The agreement slashes tariffs on a range of goods including textiles, cars, and whisky, and enhances market access for UK companies in India. The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by at least £25.5 billion by 2040.

Calling the agreement a “launchpad for growth,” Starmer emphasized the strategic importance of closer ties with India, which is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028. His delegation includes executives from leading UK firms such as BP, Rolls-Royce, Diageo, BT, and the Scotch Whisky Association—industries that are poised to benefit significantly from the lowered trade barriers.

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During his visit, Starmer is set to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on investment, clean energy transition, and education partnerships. Both governments have expressed their intention to ratify and implement the free trade agreement within the next year.

In a move reflecting growing connectivity between the two countries, British Airways has announced plans to launch a third daily flight from London to Delhi by 2026, while Manchester Airport will introduce a new route to the Indian capital operated by IndiGo.

Starmer also clarified that visa policy will not be part of the trade discussions, noting that the deal is focused solely on economic and commercial cooperation.

Analysts say the visit is both an economic and diplomatic test for the new British government, as it seeks to showcase the UK’s ability to secure influential trade partnerships beyond Europe and deliver tangible benefits to its domestic economy.