British-Made Chocolates, Cars, Whisky And Cosmetics Get Cheaper as India-UK Trade Pact Slashes Tariffs

New Delhi: British-made chocolates, cars, whisky, and cosmetics are set to become significantly more affordable in India, following a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed between India and the United Kingdom on Thursday. The deal slashes average tariffs on a wide range of UK products from around 15% to just 3%, paving the way for a major price drop for Indian consumers.

The agreement, signed in London during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, marks India’s most expansive trade pact in over a decade and the UK’s first major trade deal since Brexit. It was formalised by India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. Prime Minister Modi hailed the agreement as “a new roadmap for shared prosperity.” Indian consumers stand to benefit the most, with a host of imported British goods now entering the market at significantly lower prices.

Medical devices, aerospace components, luxury cars, and premium chocolates are among the UK exports set to see drastic reductions in cost due to lowered import duties. Industry experts anticipate strong growth in sales of British cars and confectionery in India as a result. Agneshwar Sen, Trade Policy Leader at EY India, emphasised the consumer impact: “Consumers on both sides will be the ultimate winners with greater choice and lower prices. This deal is not just about trade but about future-ready cooperation between two dynamic economies.”

Meanwhile, Indian exports, such as textiles, gems and jewellery, leather goods, and seafood—will gain near-zero duty access to the UK market, a move expected to boost jobs and industrial output in India. The agreement also includes relaxed visa norms and a social security provision benefiting Indian professionals on short-term UK assignments. Puneet Gupta, Partner at EY India, noted that this will reduce compliance costs and enhance overseas assignment efficiency. “Employees can continue contributing to their home country’s system, preserving their social security continuity,” he said.

Industry groups on both sides have welcomed the deal, but for Indian consumers, the immediate takeaway is clear: chocolates, cars, and more are about to get a lot cheaper.

Also Read: PM Modi And Keir Starmer Sign Historic Free Trade Deal, UK Done Largest Treaty Since Leaving EU