A Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement signed between India and the UK

Current Context: On 24th July 2025, India and the UK signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) — a landmark free trade pact aimed at doubling bilateral trade to $112 billion by 2030.

Here’s a crisp summary of its highlights:

• Zero-duty access for 99% of Indian exports to the UK, covering textiles, leather, marine products, gems & jewellery, and toys.
• Tariff cuts on UK exports to India, including Scotch whisky (from 150% to 40% over 10 years), automobiles (down to 10%), and medical devices.
• Expanded services access in IT, finance, education, legal, and digital trade.
• Double Contribution Convention (DCC): Indian professionals on short UK assignments are exempt from dual social security payments for up to 3 years.
• Mobility boost for chefs, yoga instructors, musicians, and engineers via streamlined visa pathways
• MSME empowerment through public procurement access and reduced non-tariff barriers.
• Sustainability and gender equality chapters included for the first time in an Indian trade pact.

Question:

Q.1 What is the targeted bilateral trade volume between India and the UK by 2030 as per the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)?
a) $50 billion
b) $80 billion
c) $115 billion
d) $112 billion

Answer: d) The agreement aims to double bilateral trade from current levels to $112 billion by 2030, reflecting ambitious trade liberalization and cooperation goals.