UK-India Trade Mission Announces Over £1 Billion in New Deals
A major UK trade mission to India has secured over £1 billion in new commercial deals, boosting AI research and aviation services.
A massive UK trade mission to India has successfully secured more than £1 billion in new commercial deals, marking a significant milestone in the strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The surge in investment follows the implementation of a landmark free trade agreement, aimed at driving growth across multiple sectors including technology, aviation, and agriculture.
Major Wins in AI and Aviation
The announcement includes several high-profile investments that highlight the growing synergy between the UK and India. Leading the charge in the technology sector, Meta for Data Technologies (MFD) has committed £50 million toward funding artificial intelligence research in the United Kingdom.
The aviation sector also saw a major boost, with the UK-based services giant Menzies Aviation announcing plans to expand its presence in India. The company aims to generate more than £600 million in revenue through this strategic expansion, signaling deep confidence in the Indian market.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The delegation, which includes over 100 businesses, is led by the UK Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, alongside the Secretaries of State for Scotland and Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The mission arrives as the momentum from the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) continues to build, with nearly £12 billion worth of deals already announced since the agreement was signed in July 2025.
UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized that the trade agreement is opening doors for regional businesses. "From advanced manufacturing to education, we want to continue to deepen ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies to bring opportunity for businesses and consumers in all corners of both countries," Reynolds stated.
Focus on Regional Growth and Exports
The mission is not just focused on national figures but also on regional economic development. Seven mayors from northern England are part of the delegation, working to develop partnerships that drive local jobs and investment.
Scotland’s Secretary, Douglas Alexander, highlighted the specific benefits for Scottish exporters. He noted that the agreement would create significant opportunities for producers of high-demand goods like salmon and whisky, while simultaneously encouraging inward investment to support employment back in Scotland.
Similarly, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary, Angela Eagle, is working to ensure that British farmers and food and drink companies can translate the FTA's commitments into real export opportunities. The delegation includes major names such as:
- The Scotch Whisky Association
- Salmon Scotland
- Fever-Tree
- Kendamil
- The National Farmers’ Union
- Walker’s Shortbread
High-Level Diplomatic Meetings
During the visit, Secretary Reynolds is scheduled to engage in critical discussions in New Delhi. He will meet with Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal to co-chair the UK-India Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). Additionally, he will co-chair the UK-India Science and Innovation Council alongside Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh.
The mission will also head to Mumbai, where the Business Secretary is set to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss regional economic cooperation and participate in a trade marketplace showcasing British excellence.
The long-term outlook for this partnership remains incredibly positive, with the free trade agreement expected to increase bilateral trade by an estimated £25.5 billion annually.