The UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic and trade relations with India, emphasizing a shared vision for future growth and innovation.
In a recent statement published by the Department for Business and Trade, UK Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch hailed India as a key strategic partner, urging both nations to capitalise on “one of the defining relationships of the 21st century.”
During her recent trip to India, Badenoch met with Indian government officials and industry leaders, underlining the importance of accelerating joint business ventures, fostering innovation, and unlocking new investment opportunities. The visit included engagements in Delhi and Mumbai, where key discussions focused on sectors such as digital trade, green energy, advanced manufacturing, and financial services.
The UK-India economic partnership has been on a steady upward trajectory, with bilateral trade reaching £36 billion in 2023 – an increase of 34% in just one year. This growth has been bolstered by ambitious efforts on both sides to finalize a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is currently in its 13th round of negotiations. The proposed FTA could unlock even greater opportunities across sectors by reducing tariffs and enhancing market access for businesses.
The UK and India are growing together 🇬🇧🤝🇮🇳
Chancellor @RachelReevesMP and Minister @nsitharaman have announced £400m of trade and investment wins at the 13th UK-India Economic and Financial Dialogue in London. pic.twitter.com/KhB4CKx9GU
— UK in India🇬🇧🇮🇳 (@UKinIndia) April 10, 2025
Badenoch emphasized the UK’s desire to be India’s “investment partner of choice,” and spotlighted the importance of mutual innovation in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and climate technology. This vision aligns closely with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s broader strategy of positioning the UK as a global leader in future-facing industries.
Highlighting collaboration between businesses as the cornerstone of this relationship, the Department also announced a series of upcoming initiatives, including UK-India business forums, joint research programmes, and innovation hubs.
As India continues to grow as one of the world’s largest economies and a key geopolitical player, the UK sees immense potential in forging closer economic ties. With both countries aligning around shared values of democracy, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, the partnership is poised to create lasting global impact.
