Keir Starmer Leads Major Trade Delegation to Mumbai to Promote U.K.-India Economic Ties:

Mumbai, October 8, 2025 – U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai early Wednesday morning, kicking off a high-profile two-day trade mission aimed at strengthening economic and strategic ties between the United Kingdom and India. The visit follows the historic signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in July 2025, during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to London. Mr. Starmer is leading a 125-member delegation comprising senior ministers, CEOs, university representatives, and major industry players, including Rolls-Royce, Diageo, British Airways, and banking giants like HSBC and Barclays. The trip, described by No.10 Downing Street as a “two-day trade mission to Mumbai,” is focused on turning the signed trade deal into tangible opportunities for both nations. Speaking on CETA, Prime Minister Starmer said, “It’s not just a piece of paper, it’s a launchpad for growth.” Trade Deal Highlights Under the new trade agreement, the U.K. has agreed to eliminate tariffs on 99% of products, a move expected to benefit key Indian exports such as textiles, footwear, seafood, and automobiles. However, this currently impacts only 45% of India’s $14.4 billion exports to the U.K. A major win for the U.K. has been in the alcohol sector. The deal cuts tariffs on Scotch whisky from 150% to 75% immediately, with a further reduction to 40% over the next decade—a big boost for Scotland's whisky industry. Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander praised the agreement, but emphasized the need for effective implementation by both governments. Despite the deal being signed, it has yet to be ratified by the U.K. Parliament, and officials suggest it may not come into effect until early 2026. Strategic and Tech Cooperation on Agenda Beyond trade, Starmer’s visit includes bilateral discussions on regional and global issues. Talks on Thursday will cover the Technology Security Initiative, launched in 2024, and a tech partnership to promote digital innovation and cybersecurity collaboration. The two leaders are also expected to reaffirm the Vision 2035 framework—an ambitious 10-year roadmap outlined during Modi’s U.K. visit, covering areas such as climate change, education, technology, and people-to-people ties. Both sides are working to reset a relationship that has experienced strain in recent years, particularly due to Labour’s previous stance on the Kashmir issue and ongoing concerns in India over Khalistani separatist activities in the U.K. Starmer and Modi to Address Global Fintech Fest On Thursday, Mr. Modi and Mr. Starmer will deliver keynote speeches at the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai, engaging with business leaders and innovators. The event is expected to showcase the deepening tech and financial cooperation between the two nations. Migration Policy Sparks Debate The visit comes at a time when the Labour government is grappling with domestic economic challenges, including high debt and slow growth. It has also introduced stricter migration controls—affecting even skilled and documented workers. India, historically the top recipient of U.K. skilled worker visas, has raised concerns about the tightening migration framework. The U.K.-India Business Council (UKIBC), represented in the delegation, called for a "balanced and predictable" approach to ensure Britain remains an attractive destination for global talent. Looking Ahead U.K.-India bilateral trade was valued at £44.1 billion ($59.14 billion) for the year ending March 2025. With CETA projected to raise U.K. GDP by 0.13% annually and increase exports to India by 60%, business leaders on both sides are optimistic. Karan Billimoria, House of Lords member and founder of Cobra Beer, said, “Britain means business. We want to increase bilateral trade, business and investment between our two countries.” As the two nations navigate a rapidly shifting global landscape, the U.K.-India partnership is being redefined—not just as a diplomatic necessity, but as a strategic, economic, and cultural opportunity for the decade ahead.

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