India and the UK FTA takes effect July 15, 2026
India and the UK announced that the free trade agreement will come into force on July 15, 2026, which is great news for Indian steel exports.
Starting July 15, 2026, nearly 85% of Indian steel shipped to the UK won't face new restrictions, even though the U.K.'s tougher rules kick in earlier.
For about $137 million worth of steel that does get caught up in those rules, India secured special quotas and access so exporters don't lose out.
India secures 99%+ duty-free UK access
This deal means over 99% of India's exports to the UK in a market worth over $500 billion, will be duty-free.
The agreement is expected to provide Indian exporters an additional tariff advantage of up to 10% compared to rivals.
Plus, thanks to a social security tweak, more than 75,000 workers and over 900 firms will save more than $500 million as exemption periods jump from 3 years to 5 years.
FTA prepares India for UK CBAM
The FTA also helps India gear up for upcoming hurdles like the U.K.'s planned carbon tax on imports (CBAM), making sure Indian trade stays strong as rules evolve.