The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) took effect on 15 July, and Buzzacott has co-authored an article with Ascentium India setting out what it means for businesses operating between the two countries.

CETA reduces tariffs across a range of sectors and extends well beyond goods, covering services, digital trade, government procurement, and the movement of professionals. Bilateral trade between the UK and India already exceeds USD 56 billion, and the agreement is expected to open up considerably more.

A related agreement, the Double Contribution Convention, came into force alongside CETA. It exempts Indian employees on temporary secondment to the UK, and their employers, from UK National Insurance contributions for up to five years, provided the employee continues to contribute to an Indian social security scheme such as the Employees' Provident Fund.

As the guide explains, however, the tariff reductions are only part of the picture. Businesses will still need to satisfy Rules of Origin requirements and work through sector-specific regulatory regimes in both markets, as well as considering the customs, transfer pricing, and corporate structuring implications of expanding cross-border activity.

The article sets out practical steps businesses should be taking now, including mapping products against the new tariff schedules, building robust origin documentation, and reviewing supply chain and operating structures in light of the agreement.

The full article is available to read here.