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UK and India sign historic trade deal

Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi finalize a trade agreement projected to boost the UK economy.

July 24, 2025 at 02:43 PM

Starmer and Modi hail ‘historic day’ as UK-India trade deal is signed

The UK-India trade deal aims to significantly boost economic ties and investment.

UK and India sign ambitious trade deal that faces scrutiny

Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi have signed a free trade agreement projected to enhance the UK economy by £4.8 billion annually and attract £6 billion in investment. Announced at Chequers after lengthy negotiations, Modi emphasized the partnership as a natural one. Tariffs on UK goods will decrease from 15% to 3%, with specific reductions on whisky tariffs. However, the deal still requires parliamentary approval. Critics voice concerns that it falls short for the UK’s financial sector and cite issues related to human rights and climate policies in India. Discussions on a bilateral investment treaty are ongoing, with resistance from India on proposed carbon border taxes.

Key Takeaways

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UK-India trade deal projected to add £4.8 billion yearly to UK economy

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Deal requires approval from both British and Indian parliaments

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Critics argue it lacks support for UK's financial services

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Human rights issues in India overshadow the agreement

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Negotiations for a bilateral investment treaty are uncertain

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India opposes UK’s proposed carbon border tax

"The deal lacks robust climate safeguards, especially regarding coal extraction."

A statement from the London Mining Network highlights critical environmental concerns.

"Jagtar is arbitrarily detained; I’ve grown tired of weak excuses."

Gurpreet Singh Johal expresses frustration over the lack of action regarding his brother's case.

"This agreement sends a powerful signal that the UK is open for business."

A positive remark from the Confederation of British Industry on the newly signed trade deal.

While the agreement promises economic benefits, skepticism lingers over its actual impact. Critics argue that the deal does little for critical sectors like finance and lacks climate safeguards. Such tensions point to deeper concerns on the balance between economic growth and ethical responsibilities. The ongoing negotiations, notably around issues like investment treaties and human rights, suggest that the relationship between the UK and India remains complex and fraught with challenges. The attention around Jagtar Singh Johal's detention adds a layer of political sensitivity to the newly forged economic ties, risking domestic backlash and international criticism.

Highlights

This agreement marks a new chapter for UK-India relations.
A historic day, but does the trade deal truly meet expectations?
Concerns over human rights must not be ignored in trade talks.
Economic partnership at a cost; human rights shouldn't take a backseat.

Concerns of human rights and political backlash

The UK-India trade deal faces criticism over India's human rights record, particularly related to the case of Jagtar Singh Johal. Critics argue that the trade agreement may overlook essential ethical considerations, which could lead to public backlash against the UK government.

The outcome of this deal will be crucial for both nations' futures and their global positioning.

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uk india trade deal economic growth human rights politics business international relations

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