India-UK CETA to Take Effect on 15 July 2026
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) are scheduled to enter into force on 15 July 2026. CETA was signed in July 2025 after more than three years of negotiations, while the DCC covers social security contribution rules for eligible Indian professionals and companies in the UK.
About CETA
CETA is a bilateral trade agreement covering goods, services, investment and market access. India will reduce or remove tariffs on British goods such as whisky, gin and cosmetics, while the UK will cut tariffs on Indian exports including marine products, gems and jewellery, toys, engineering goods, chemicals and auto components. The deal provides zero-duty access for nearly 99% of India's exports.
Double Contribution Convention
The DCC exempts eligible Indian professionals and companies from paying dual social security contributions for up to five years. It is expected to benefit about 900 Indian firms and more than 75,000 Indian professionals in the UK.
Key Exam Facts
- CETA is a free trade agreement covering goods, services and investment.
- India-UK bilateral trade reached GBP 47.4 billion in 2025.
- Indian-owned companies in the UK numbered 1,912 in 2026.
- Union Minister Piyush Goyal held trade talks in London in late June 2026.
