India-UK CETA Comes Into Force, PM Modi Highlights Gains For Farmers And MSMEs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday welcomed the coming into force of the India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Agreement on Social Security, describing the development as a major milestone in bilateral ties. He said the two agreements would strengthen economic cooperation, create new opportunities for businesses and workers, and further deepen the strategic partnership between India and the United Kingdom.

In a post on X, Modi said the operationalisation of the agreements marked a significant moment in India-UK relations and reflected the shared ambition of both countries to expand economic engagement. He noted that the implementation of the trade pact and the social security agreement would translate the two nations' common vision into tangible benefits for their citizens by boosting trade, investment and workforce mobility.

The Prime Minister said the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement would provide fresh momentum to India's farmers, entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He added that the pact would help several key sectors secure greater access to the UK market, opening new export opportunities for Indian products and strengthening commercial links between businesses in both countries. The agreement is expected to reduce trade barriers, improve market access and encourage greater bilateral investment.

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Highlighting the broader significance of the agreements, Modi said they would further reinforce economic linkages between India and the UK while supporting long-term growth. "This is a significant moment in the India-United Kingdom partnership! With the coming into force of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and the Agreement on Social Security, our economic linkages are going to get even deeper. Together, these agreements translate our shared ambition into tangible opportunities for our people," he wrote on the social media platform.

The Agreement on Social Security is expected to benefit professionals and workers moving between the two countries by providing greater clarity and coordination regarding social security contributions and related benefits. Such arrangements are aimed at reducing financial burdens on employees and employers, facilitating smoother movement of skilled professionals while promoting stronger economic collaboration.

The implementation of CETA represents one of the most significant trade developments between India and the UK in recent years. Both governments have projected the agreement as a means to expand bilateral trade, encourage investment, strengthen supply chains and create employment opportunities across multiple sectors. The pact is also expected to support India's export-driven industries by improving access to one of its key international markets.

India and the United Kingdom have steadily expanded cooperation across trade, technology, education, defence and clean energy in recent years. The entry into force of the two agreements is expected to further consolidate this partnership by fostering closer economic integration and creating new opportunities for businesses, investors and professionals in both countries. With CETA now operational, both nations will focus on implementing its provisions to maximise the benefits for industries and citizens alike.

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