15/07/2026
UK–India Free Trade Agreement Now in Effect
The UK–India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) entered into force on 15 July 2026, eliminating tariffs on 99% of Indian imports into the UK and progressively reducing tariffs on 85% of UK exports to India over the next decade.
The agreement opens one of the world's fastest-growing markets to UK businesses and supports wider strategic initiatives, including the India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC).
Key points for businesses:
Importing into the UK
Goods must satisfy the Rules of Origin.
Preference may be claimed using an origin declaration, certificate of origin, or importer's knowledge.
Exporting to India
UK exporters must first register with HMRC before self-certifying origin.
An Origin Declaration (PDF) must be emailed to Indian Customs and copied to the importer.
Successful declarations receive a Unique Reference Number (URN), enabling the importer to claim preferential tariff treatment.
Alinea Customs has prepared a practical step-by-step guide to help businesses navigate the new requirements.