UK's West Midlands Embarks on Strategic Trade Mission to India

From February 23 to 27, 2026, Richard Parker, Mayor of the UK's West Midlands, will lead a trade mission to India, aiming to strengthen economic and cultural ties following the 2025 UK-India Free Trade Agreement. The mission seeks to attract investment, create jobs, and promote cultural exchange.

The UK's West Midlands is gearing up for a strategic trade mission to the Indian cities of Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, led by Richard Parker, the region's mayor. This mission, the first of 2026, aims to deepen ties after the historic UK-India Free Trade Agreement signed in July 2025.

The delegation aims to bolster economic and cultural bonds between the two markets to create valuable partnerships for universities, businesses, and the broader community. Richard Parker highlights the mission's dual purpose of creating job opportunities and fostering political engagement with key Indian leaders.

Key figures from academia and business, including Coventry City Council's CEO Dr. Julie Nugent and Birmingham City University's Vice-Chancellor Prof. David Mba, will accompany the mayor. This mission is poised to drive economic and educational collaborations, positioning the West Midlands as a lucrative destination for Indian investments.

(With inputs from agencies.)