India-UK: Fresh round of talks on to resolve differences

Posted under: MSME
Date: 2023-11-16
India-UK: Fresh round of talks on to resolve differences

India and the UK are engaged in discussions on a free trade agreement (FTA), addressing complex issues of economic significance. The talks, spanning 13 rounds so far, prioritize resolving outstanding issues, including a social security pact, medical devices, intellectual property rights, and duty concessions. Concurrent negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) focus on dispute settlement mechanisms. The FTA, initiated in January 2022, aims to cover goods, services, investments, and intellectual property rights across 26 chapters. While the deadline was missed due to UK political developments, discussions continue to achieve a comprehensive agreement. The UK ranks as the 7th largest market for Indian exports, with talks also progressing on broadening the existing free trade agreement with Australia. Additionally, negotiations with Peru and Sri Lanka are ongoing, demonstrating India's active engagement in expanding trade partnerships.

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