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London, July 24, 2025 — Marking a watershed moment in global trade, India and the United Kingdom have formally entered into a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), opening a new chapter in economic cooperation. Ashish Chauhan, Managing Director and CEO of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), hailed the development from London, describing it as “historic and transformative” for both nations.

The FTA, finalized after years of negotiations, eliminates tariffs on 99% of India’s exports to the UK. From agriculture, fisheries, and pharmaceuticals to engineering goods and electric vehicles, Indian exporters are set to benefit from nearly zero-tariff access to one of the world’s most advanced economies. The current India-UK trade volume stands at \$56 billion, and the ambitious new target is \$120 billion, with even greater potential on the horizon.

Ashishkumar Chauhan emphasized the deal’s broader implications: “This agreement isn’t just about trade in goods—it’s about empowering professionals, enhancing innovation, and building stronger geopolitical partnerships. It is a template for the future, not just with the UK, but with other economic powers like the US, EU, and Japan.”

One of the most notable advantages lies in the domain of professional mobility. Indian professionals working in the UK will now be exempt from paying up to three years of social security tax, potentially saving around ₹4,000 crore annually. The revised visa framework will also ease long-term employment prospects, particularly in high-demand sectors such as IT, finance, and healthcare.

The FTA also paves the way for greater cooperation in high-technology sectors, including electronics, mobile devices, and semiconductor manufacturing. Chauhan noted that the agreement “removes historic barriers and lays the groundwork for high-tech, value-added exports—exactly the sectors where India is scaling rapidly.”

Expressing gratitude to India’s leadership, Ashishkumar Chauhan said, “This achievement is a testament to the strategic vision and relentless efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. Their commitment has ensured that India not only secures trade advantages but also gains global respect as a reliable economic partner.”

The India-UK FTA is expected to significantly boost investor confidence, create new employment opportunities, and deepen financial and industrial linkages between the two nations. As the world watches closely, this deal may well become a blueprint for India’s next wave of global economic engagement.