The UK Trade Commissioner for South Asia‘s visit to Kolkata highlights the expanding economic links between India and the UK as a result of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and opens doors for cooperation in sophisticated manufacturing, green growth, and technological innovation.

On December 10–11, 2025, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for South Asia, Harjinder Kang, will go to Kolkata to meet with important industry players and reaffirm the UK’s dedication to strengthening trade and investment relations with West Bengal.

At a reception organized by the British Deputy High Commission Kolkata, Harjinder will also commemorate the signing of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement with business executives and representatives.

The purpose of the tour is to draw attention to Kolkata’s strategic importance for UK companies looking to expand into East and Northeast India. The Trade Commissioner will meet representatives from important industries in the area, such as financial services, technology, innovation, and sophisticated manufacturing. As the India-UK trade relationship continues to grow, his talks will center on ways to expedite current bilateral trade and investment totaling more than £47 billion annually. This comes after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited India in October, along with the biggest government trade trip to date.

By lowering tariffs on 90% of Indian and 99% of UK goods, the historic UK-India trade agreement ushers in a new era of opportunity and unlocks billions of dollars in trade potential. Customers on both sides of the nations will have more options, from Indian cuisine and fashion to classic British goods like Scotch whiskey and electric cars, while companies will have unparalleled access to thriving markets.

Increased contact points and information on trade and investment will be provided to businesses in West Bengal, including small and medium-sized businesses. Harjinder will encounter several companies that are profiting from industries including engineering, jute, tea, handicrafts, textiles, and agriculture.

This includes through the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), which will hold a session on “Unlocking Emerging Trade Opportunities between India & the UK under the upcoming Comprehensive Economic & Trade Agreement (CETA)” on December 10 in Kolkata. Harjinder Kang will be the keynote speaker.

Priyanka Dutta