India–UK Trade Pact And Social Security Agreement To Take Effect From July 15, 2026

New Delhi, Jun 18 (KNN) India and the United Kingdom have announced that their Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), along with a Social Security pact known as the Double Contribution Convention (DCC), will come into force on July 15, 2026. 

The agreements follow the completion of all required approvals by both countries and are aligned with India’s long-term vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’. They are expected to translate policy commitments into practical economic engagement between the two nations, according to the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Market Access and Trade Benefits

Under CETA, Indian exporters will gain duty-free access to 99 per cent of tariff lines in the UK. Tariffs across sectors such as textiles, leather, marine products, engineering goods, processed food, chemicals and pharmaceuticals will be reduced to zero.

The agreement is expected to boost exports, improve competitiveness and create new opportunities for farmers, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), workers and manufacturers. At the same time, India has protected sensitive sectors such as dairy, cereals, edible oils and certain agricultural products, the ministry noted.

Services and Mobility Provisions

The UK has offered wide-ranging access across key services sectors, including IT, financial services, healthcare, education and consultancy. The agreement also introduces clearer mobility pathways for business visitors, professionals and investors.

In a notable provision, 1,800 Indian chefs, yoga instructors and classical artists will receive annual mobility opportunities under the pact.

Social Security Relief for Professionals

The Double Contribution Convention exempts Indian professionals working temporarily in the UK from paying social security contributions in both countries. The exemption period has been extended from three to five years, benefiting over 75,000 professionals and around 900 companies.

Strategic and Economic Impact

The agreement also includes provisions on digital trade, intellectual property, sustainability and government procurement, making it a modern and comprehensive framework. Both countries have also agreed to safeguard trade interests in sectors such as steel to ensure stability.

Officials said the pact is designed to deliver broad-based benefits, supporting employment, exports and deeper integration into global value chains.

(KNN Bureau)