J.W. Marriott Kolkata, December 10 – The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)
today convened a high-level interaction in Kolkata to explore emerging trade opportunities
between the United Kingdom and India under CETA, organised as part of the Niryat Bandhu
initiative aimed at mentoring new and aspiring exporters.
The session featured His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for South Asia, Mr. Harjinder Kang,
formerly the UK’s Chief Negotiator for the UK–India Free Trade Agreement. Speaking at the
event, Mr. Kang said,
“The trade relations between India and the UK are extremely positive right now. India is
doing very well with all its relations and that is showing. On the business side, our trade has
already gone up because of the confidence in the trade deal. And I think it’ll only get
stronger.”
He was joined by Dr. Andrew Fleming, Deputy High Commissioner, Kolkata, along with
senior members of the UK Trade Policy Team. Reflecting on the progress of bilateral
negotiations, Dr. Fleming noted,
“After months of negotiation, the trade agreement has been signed. It’s a turning point for
businesses on both sides. The UK already imports so much, but we estimate an increase of
£9.9 billion. What truly distinguishes the UK is that customers are conscious about where
their products come from. They are open to exploring new brands. Each is a potential
customer for you because the agreement has liberalised itself by 99 percent.”
A special address was delivered by Mr. Bipin Menon, Additional DGFT, who presented key
considerations for exporters, including compliance essentials, policy updates, and
practical pathways for MSMEs and first-generation exporters under Niryat Bandhu.
The session was brought together under the leadership of Mr. Abhishek Poddar, Regional
Chairman, FIEO Eastern Region, whose efforts were central to curating this dialogue in
Kolkata. As Regional Head, Mr. Poddar played a pivotal role in connecting key stakeholders
– from senior UK trade officials to DGFT leadership and regional exporters – ensuring that
Eastern India’s exporters had direct access to timely insights and policy expertise. His
stewardship and initiative made it possible for the region’s business community to engage
closely with policymakers shaping the future of UK–India trade.
The event saw strong participation from exporters, industry representatives, and media,
underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to strengthening economic ties and
building a more opportunity-rich environment for trade.
