For the first time, India has also agreed to phased duty reductions on imports of UK-origin alcoholic beverages, including whisky, rum, brandy, vodka, liqueurs, cider, mead, and tequila India has…

For the first time, India has also agreed to phased duty reductions on imports of UK-origin alcoholic beverages, including whisky, rum, brandy, vodka, liqueurs, cider, mead, and tequila

India has secured a significant win for its agriculture and food processing sectors in its trade agreement with the United Kingdom. Under the pact, the UK will eliminate import duties on nearly 99.7 per cent of tariff lines covering Indian food products, many of which were previously subject to tariffs as high as 70 per cent.

Key export-oriented segments such as seafood, dairy, and meat products will now enjoy zero-duty access to the UK market, with existing tariffs of up to 20 per cent being fully removed. The move is expected to open up new opportunities for Indian producers and strengthen rural livelihoods.

For the first time, India has also agreed to phased duty reductions on imports of UK-origin alcoholic beverages, including whisky, rum, brandy, vodka, liqueurs, cider, mead, and tequila. These products, currently facing a base customs duty of 150 per cent, will see duties drop to 75 per cent over ten years, provided they meet a Minimum Import Price (MIP) of $5 per litre or $6 per 750 ml bottle. The reductions will be implemented through equal annual cuts starting at 110 per cent in the first year.

The agreement marks a key step in expanding India’s footprint in global agri-food trade and enhancing the competitiveness of its farm and marine exports.