UK-India Trade Talks Focus Solely on Business Mobility Visas Amid FTA Push

The ongoing negotiations for an India-UK Free Trade Agreement are concentrating exclusively on temporary business mobility visas, excluding categories such as student visas. British authorities emphasized this area due to its relevance to UK exporters. The talks aim to boost bilateral trade, enhance economic growth, and reduce tariffs like those on whisky.

The UK government clarifies that the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations are focusing solely on temporary business mobility visas, leaving out categories like student visas. This was communicated during a House of Lords debate, stressing the importance of these visas for UK exporters.

Peers across parties have pressed for clarification in light of the recent relaunch of FTA talks led by UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. Lord Sonny Leong emphasized during the debate that only business visas, relevant due to their nature of being temporary and specific, are under consideration.

British authorities aim to reduce tariffs, promoting economic ties worth GBP 41 billion, and addressing challenges like India's high tariffs on goods such as whisky. The debate underscored the urgency to conclude FTA discussions swiftly to ensure the UK's competitive position in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)