PM Modi Meets UK PM Keir Starmer in London to Finalise Big Trade Deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Thursday. They held private talks in the historic Hawtry Room to finalise a major UK-India free trade agreement. This deal is known as India's biggest-ever trade deal and the UK's most important post-Brexit agreement.

‘Plan for Change’ Promises Jobs and Growth

Before their meeting, Starmer shared on X that the trade deal is his "plan for change in action". He said it would bring jobs, investment, and growth to the UK. Starmer added it would create thousands of British jobs, help businesses, and put money back into people’s pockets.

The British High Commission noted the deal could raise trade between the nations by £25.5 billion each year. It will lower tariffs, open markets, and create more business opportunities for both countries.

Vision 2035 and Strategic Partnership

During Modi’s visit, both leaders are set to launch UK-India Vision 2035, a renewed partnership covering defence, tech, climate, education, and security. This agreement builds on the UK‑India Technology Security Initiative signed last year, focusing on using new technologies and improving border and national security cooperation.

Tariffs Cut on Cars, Devices & More

India is already the UK's 12th largest trading partner, with trade worth over £36 billion. Under the deal, tariffs on British products—including cars, medical devices, cosmetics, and soft drinks—are expected to fall from 15% to around 3%, benefitting Indian buyers. India’s exporters will also get easier market entry, boosting the UK’s current £11 billion worth of imports from India.

Jonathan Reynolds, UK Business and Trade Secretary, said that India is "an emerging economic superpower", calling the pact a new chapter in their partnership.