India and the United Kingdom announced that the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) will come into force on 15 July 2026.
The agreement marks a new phase in India–UK economic cooperation by promoting trade, investment, and services.
Key Features
The Double Contribution Convention (DCC) extends the exemption from dual social security contributions for Indian professionals working temporarily in the UK from 3 years to 5 years.
The foundation for the agreement was laid through the India–UK Enhanced Trade Partnership (2021) and the India–UK Roadmap 2030, aimed at doubling bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030.
After 14 rounds of negotiations, the CETA was concluded on 6 May 2025 and signed in London on 24 July 2025.
The agreement comprises 30 chapters, covering trade in goods, digital trade, telecommunications, financial services, intellectual property rights (IPR), and government procurement.
Under the CETA, the UK will eliminate tariffs on several Indian exports, including processed foods, marine products, engineering goods, auto components, leather, footwear, textiles, clothing, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
The UK has offered one of its most comprehensive market access commitments to India under any Free Trade Agreement.
India and the UK have also reached an understanding on the UK’s steel safeguard measures effective 1 July 2026, with 85% of India’s steel exports remaining outside their scope.
The agreement is expected to benefit exporters, professionals, MSMEs, farmers, startups, and consumers while strengthening the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Source: DD India
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