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India's trade deal with the United Kingdom (UK) comes into force today (July 15), opening the British market to nearly all Indian exports. From today, several British products, from Scotch whisky and luxury cars to chocolates and cosmetics, will be cheaper in India. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was signed in London on July 24, 2025, by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and his UK counterpart Jonathan Reynolds in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The agreement gives 99% of Indian exports duty-free access to the UK. India has selectively reduced tariffs on British goods over a phased period. New Delhi has, however, protected sensitive domestic sectors. Calling the agreement a "triumph of economic statecraft", Goyal said it would unlock new opportunities for Indian exporters. "By securing immediate duty-free access on 99% of our tariff lines, we have systematically dismantled long-standing tariff walls. This will effectively level the playing field, allowing our textiles, leather, marine, engineering, and processed food sectors to compete with no disadvantage and supply their world-class products." Don't Miss| Ahead of UK trade deal roll out, India notifies lower customs duty for car imports What Gets Cheaper In India? Several British consumer products are set to become cheaper as tariff cuts begin under the agreement. The biggest winner is Scotch whisky. Import duty on British whisky will be cut from 150% to 75% immediately before falling further to 40% over the next 10 years. Gin will also benefit from lower tariffs. Premium British cars will also become more affordable. Tariffs on fully built vehicles, currently as high as 110%, will be gradually reduced to 10% over 10 years under a quota system. Luxury brands such as Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, McLaren, and Land Rover are expected to benefit. Access for British electric and hybrid vehicles will also be phased in through quotas to protect India's domestic auto industry. British exports such as chocolates, sweet biscuits, soft drinks, cosmetics, and other consumer goods will also become cheaper as tariffs are lowered. Which Indian Sectors Stand To Gain? The biggest gains are on the export side. Indian exporters will enjoy zero-duty access across several key sectors. UK tariffs of up to 70% on processed food, 21.5% on marine products, 18% on engineering goods and auto components, 16% on leather and footwear, 12% on textiles and clothing, and 8% on chemicals and pharmaceutical products will be eliminated. The Commerce Ministry said the agreement will improve the competitiveness of Indian products, create opportunities for farmers, fishermen, workers, MSMEs and manufacturers, and strengthen India's position in global value chains. India, however, has kept several sensitive sectors outside the deal, including dairy products, cereals, millets, edible oils, oilseeds, apples, and several vegetables. Agriculture And Processed Food The UK is a premium market for Indian tea, mangoes, grapes, spices, and processed food. India exports processed food worth $14.07 billion globally, while the UK imports products worth $50.68 billion, but Indian products account for only $309.5 million of those imports. The government expects exports of agricultural and processed food products to rise by more than 50% over the next three years. States including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, and the northeastern states are expected to benefit. Coffee, Tea, And Spices Duty-free access is expected to boost exports of value-added products, especially instant coffee. The government says Indian exporters will now compete on equal terms with suppliers from countries such as Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands in the UK market. Marine Products India exported marine products worth $8.09 billion in 2022-23. The removal of UK tariffs is expected to boost exports of shrimp, tuna, fishmeal and processed seafood while improving returns for exporters and coastal fishing communities. States such as Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha are expected to benefit. Textiles And Clothing India's textiles and clothing exports will now have zero duty, down from the earlier 12%. India had been facing a duty disadvantage vis-à-vis Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Cambodia, which had duty-free access to the UK market. Manufacturing hubs, including Tiruppur, Surat, Ludhiana, Bhadohi, and Moradabad, are expected to see higher demand. Pharmaceuticals India exports pharmaceuticals worth $23.31 billion globally, while the UK imports nearly $30 billion worth of medicines annually. The zero-duty access is expected to make Indian generic medicines more competitive in India's largest pharmaceutical export market, Europe. Medical devices such as surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, ECG machines, and X-ray systems will also benefit from duty-free access. Leather And Footwear The UK imports leather and footwear worth $8.5 billion, while India's current exports to the country stand at $440 million. Products that earlier attracted duties of up to 16% will now enter the UK duty-free. The government expects India to gain at least 5% additional market share in the UK within one to two years. Exports could eventually exceed $900 million, with manufacturers in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Delhi-NCR expected to benefit. Services And Mobility The UK has offered one of its widest-ever commitments on services, covering all major sectors and 137 sub-sectors of interest to India. Indian companies in IT, financial services, healthcare, education, engineering, telecom, and consultancy are expected to benefit from improved market access. The agreement also creates dedicated mobility routes for business visitors, intra-company transferees, contractual service suppliers, independent professionals, and investors. In a first, 1,800 Indian chefs, yoga instructors, and classical musicians will receive dedicated annual mobility opportunities under the agreement. Social Security Relief The accompanying Social Security Agreement exempts Indian professionals and employers from making dual social security contributions during temporary assignments in the UK. The exemption period has been extended from three years to five years. The government estimates that more than 75,000 Indian professionals and over 900 companies will benefit, with savings of over ₹4,000 crore through the Double Contribution Convention. What India Opened And What It Protected While India secured duty-free access for 99% of its exports to the UK, it has opened 89.5% of its tariff lines, covering 91% of British exports. However, only 24.5% of UK exports will receive immediate duty-free access. India has excluded sensitive sectors such as dairy, cereals, millets, pulses, edible oils, apples, gold, jewellery, lab-grown diamonds, smartphones, optical fibre, critical energy products and marine vessels. For sectors being promoted under Make in India and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, tariff reductions will be phased in over five, seven, or ten years. Trade between India and the UK currently stands at $56 billion. Both countries aim to double it by 2030.

Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi New Delhi, Jul 15: The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between India and the United Kingdom came into effect on Wednesday, paving the way for lower tariffs, expanded market access and a significant boost to bilateral trade. The agreement aims to increase India-UK trade from the current USD 55-60 billion to USD 100 billion by 2030. Under the pact, nearly 99 per cent of Indian exports to the UK will enjoy duty-free access. Sectors expected to benefit include textiles and garments, leather and footwear, seafood, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, auto components, chemicals, electrical equipment and sports goods. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the agreement as a milestone that would strengthen economic ties between the two countries and create new opportunities for Indian farmers, workers, MSMEs, startups and innovators, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. On the UK side, tariffs on several British products exported to India will be reduced in phases. Import duties on Scotch whisky, currently as high as 150 per cent, will be lowered to 75 per cent initially and further reduced to 40 per cent over the next decade. Duties on British cars will also be cut from up to 110 per cent to 10 per cent under a quota system, with electric and hybrid vehicles also covered by the agreement. As a result, products such as Scotch whisky, gin, chocolates, biscuits, cosmetics, premium British cars, machinery, medical devices and certain auto parts are expected to become more affordable for Indian consumers over time. The UK, meanwhile, will reduce tariffs on Indian goods, including clothing, footwear and selected food products, making Indian exports more competitive in the British market and potentially lowering prices for UK consumers. To safeguard domestic interests, India has excluded sensitive agricultural products such as dairy items, sugar, rice, apples, cheese, chicken, pork and eggs from the agreement, protecting Indian farmers and the dairy sector from increased foreign competition. Officials expect the agreement to deepen economic cooperation, enhance investment flows and generate employment opportunities in both countries. Estimates suggest bilateral trade could grow by nearly 39 per cent by 2040, adding billions of pounds in annual trade between India and the UK.

The landmark India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) officially came into force on Wednesday, paving the way for lower tariffs on a wide range of goods, improved market access for businesses and stronger economic ties between the two countries. The agreement is expected to benefit both Indian consumers and exporters. Premium British products, including Scotch whisky, luxury cars, cosmetics, chocolates and select food items, are likely to become more affordable in India as import duties are reduced in phases. On the export front, Indian industries stand to gain significantly, with nearly 99 per cent of Indian exports set to receive duty-free access to the UK market. Key sectors expected to benefit include textiles and garments, leather and footwear, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, marine products, chemicals and processed food. The deal is also aimed at boosting bilateral trade, attracting investments and creating new employment opportunities by making it easier for businesses in both countries to access each other's markets. Apart from trade in goods, the agreement strengthens cooperation in services and professional mobility. Indian professionals working in the UK on temporary assignments will benefit from the Double Contribution Convention, which exempts eligible workers from paying social security contributions in both countries for a specified period. Industry leaders have welcomed the implementation of the agreement, saying it will enhance the competitiveness of Indian exports, diversify supply chains and provide businesses with greater access to one of India's key trading partners. However, experts have noted that companies will need to familiarise themselves with rules of origin, certification requirements and product standards to fully leverage the benefits offered under the agreement. The India-UK FTA is expected to significantly deepen economic cooperation between the two nations, offering consumers lower prices on premium imports while providing Indian exporters with greater opportunities to expand their presence in the British market.

India's trade deal with the UK could make premium whisky more accessible to Indian consumers, but the same tariff cuts could make it harder for the country's young single malt industry to build capacity. The India-UK free trade agreement, which took effect on Wednesday, immediately halves import duties on Scotch whisky and gin to 75% from 150%, with tariffs set to fall further to 40% over the next decade. The immediate impact is expected to be lower prices for imported spirits, although the benefit to consumers will depend on how much of the duty savings companies and distributors pass on. For domestic distillers, the trade-off is sharper: cheaper imported Scotch could accelerate premiumization and lower input costs for Indian whisky makers, while intensifying competition for local single malts just as the industry is scaling up. Lower prices, bigger premium market India is one of the world's largest whisky markets, with approximately 259 million nine-litre cases sold annually, according to latest available data (2024) from industry body Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies. Whisky accounts for about two-thirds of India's consumer spirits market. Imported spirits volumes grew at a compound annual rate of 16% between 2019 and 2024, according to international drinks consultancy IWSR. The researcher expects India to become the world's largest Scotch whisky market by 2027, with Scotch volumes forecast to grow 7% annually between 2024 and 2029. Premium-and-above blended Scotch and malt Scotch are expected to grow faster. Company heads expect retail prices of imported Scotch to fall 7-10% in many states, although the final benefit will depend on state taxes and how much of the savings is passed through the value chain. Kartik Mohindra, managing director at William Grant & Sons India, which makes Glenfiddich and Grants, said prices are expected to decline 7-10%, with the impact varying across states because of differing excise structures and taxes. The reduction is unlikely to transform the market overnight, but removes a pricing barrier for first-time buyers and could encourage existing consumers to trade up, he said. “Pricing was a deterrent. This softens that deterrent a fair bit. What we are hoping is that it will energise the category,” Mohindra said. The FTA, signed in May after more than three years of negotiations, is India's most significant trade deal with the UK. The bulk Scotch effect The bigger industry impact may come from Scotch that consumers never see on a retail shelf. Bulk Scotch accounts for nearly four-fifths of India's Scotch imports by volume as per ISWAI, and is widely used by Indian liquor makers in premium whisky blends, according to the International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI). Lower import costs could improve the economics of those blends and support the industry's premiumization push. Alcohol industry consultant Nita Kapoor said the agreement's biggest impact is likely to be on bulk Scotch rather than imported bottled whisky. “The real benefit will be for Indian companies that use imported Scotch in blends. Lower input costs can improve product quality and help domestic brands compete better,” Kapoor said, adding that imported bottled brands will continue to face structural challenges because of India's state-wise liquor regulations. In Maharashtra, retail prices of eligible imported Scotch could fall by 12-13%, ISWAI said. The state is a gateway market for western and southern India, and companies may rationalize prices there sooner, although the final impact will depend on state taxes and pricing decisions by companies and distributors. ISWAI said the agreement could also expand consumer access to premium imported spirits, where companies pass on the duty savings. A new threat to Indian single malts The competitive pressure, however, is likely to be concentrated at the premium end of the market, said Suresh Nair, partner, indirect tax, EY India. Lower import duties could make premium imported Scotch moderately more affordable and expand consumer choice, while the mass-market whisky segment is unlikely to be affected, Nair said. “For the broader Indian liquor market, the deal will accelerate premiumization, benefit companies that use bulk Scotch, and increase competition in the premium segment, without causing major disruption to the mass market,” he said. That is already forcing some domestic distillers to revisit their investment assumptions. "The UK's whisky industry is over 500 years old and far more evolved, whereas Indian single malts are only beginning to scale," said Sam Mahandru, founder of domestic alcohol manufacturer IndoBevs. “Imported malt whisky could, in some cases, become cheaper than manufacturing it locally, making planned investments in domestic malt distilleries harder to justify. We are also setting up a malt distillery, and this treaty has forced us to recalculate our projections. That said, competing with the best in the world will push Indian players to raise their game faster, and I firmly believe the Indian malt story will bloom,” he said. IndoBevs produces, blends, and bottles premium whiskies for India, including Enso, Glen Eden, and Wingman. Mahandru said lower import duties would be distributed across manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers, limiting the eventual reduction in shelf prices. While consumers stand to benefit, he said, the tariff cuts could create fresh challenges for India's young single malt industry. Kapoor said the FTA should be seen as a catalyst rather than an end in itself. While it could intensify competition for domestic players, it also creates an opportunity for spirits companies to strengthen manufacturing, build premium brands and expand exports as the industry becomes more integrated with global markets. “Karnataka will see the earliest impact of this. Maharashtra could be next, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Delhi. If Uttar Pradesh also considers this, then it is likely to be a national policy,” she said. Karnataka is the first state to have implemented an excise policy based on alcohol by volume (ABV), and the results have been encouraging, she added. The deal, in effect, gives India's whisky industry a sharper choice: use cheaper imported Scotch to accelerate premiumization—or invest in building a domestic malt industry that must compete with a much older global rival on more equal terms.

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New Single Malt Heralds a Golden Age for Family-Run Jackton Distillery Scotland's independent Jackton Distillery, led by 28-year-old MD Jaynie Kean, prepares to launch its highly anticipated first RAER single malt after six years of maturation. After a decade of meticulous maturation and precise operational scaling, Jackton Distillery is poised to release its inaugural RAER single malt, cementing its position as a formidable independent player within the fiercely competitive Scottish Lowlands whisky sector. The highly anticipated Q3 2026 launch represents the culmination of a vision executed by the Kean family, who transformed their former farm in South Lanarkshire into a cutting-edge distillation facility. The operation is guided by Managing Director Jaynie Kean, who, at 28, holds the distinction of being one of the youngest female executives managing a major whisky distillery in Scotland. Her leadership has navigated the brand from its first cask fill in February 2020 to a global release heavily monitored by international collectors. The Anatomy of the First Release The initial production run is strictly limited to 6,000 bottles, enforcing a scarcity that has already driven pre-allocations from premium collectors spanning markets from the United States to East Asia. However, the operational philosophy driving the RAER single malt explicitly rejects exclusionary luxury in favor of supreme drinkability. The whisky was engineered to build upon the established success of Jackton's RAER blended Scotch, which gained market traction through its approachable flavor profile. Over the preceding six years, the distillery instituted a rigorous tracking methodology. The liquid within the oak, sherry, and port casks was subjected to constant data-driven monitoring, measuring precise developmental variables rather than relying solely on traditional sensory estimation. - Grain-to-Glass Integration: The distillery operates on a closed-loop system where barley harvests dictate production cycles, water is heavily recycled, and residual draff is utilized to feed local livestock. - Production Metrics: Operating a specialized one-ton mash tun, the facility conducts four to five mashes weekly. The fermentation process spans 90 hours within stainless steel washbacks, producing a spirit designed to be exceptionally smooth. - Community Validation: Prior to the final bottling decision, the distillery hosted a VIP Burns Night event in January 2026, integrating public palate feedback into the final cask selection process. Executive Leadership and Market Disruption Jaynie Kean's aggressive push to modernize the distillery's operational footprint reflects a broader shift within the notoriously traditional Scotch industry. By aggressively expanding the brand's tourism infrastructure—including the appointment of a dedicated Head of Experience and the launch of bespoke tasting tours—Jackton has established a robust direct-to-consumer revenue stream independent of wholesale distribution. The Kean family's refusal to sell the operation to multinational beverage conglomerates allows them unparalleled agility. "We are taking our time, because that is what our whisky deserves," Kean noted, emphasizing that every supplementary month inside the cask incrementally deepens the character of the final product. Global Reach and African Market Potential While the first 6,000 bottles are rapidly vanishing into private collections in China and America, the long-term expansion of the RAER brand carries significant implications for emerging consumer markets. Africa remains one of the fastest-growing destinations for premium Scottish spirits. In Kenya, where the burgeoning middle class drives substantial imports of single malts through Nairobi and Mombasa, independent labels like Jackton offer lucrative diversification for local distributors seeking alternatives to ubiquitous legacy brands. The price point for Jackton's standard offerings—such as their £35.70 (KES 5,800) experiential tours—indicates a premium positioning that aligns perfectly with the high-end hospitality sectors emerging in cities like Lagos, Johannesburg, and Accra. As the autumn launch approaches, Jackton Distillery stands as a definitive case study in how independent operators can leverage generational patience, precise chemistry, and aggressive modern marketing to challenge the monolithic giants of the Scottish whisky trade. Hot discussions around this story Keep the conversation in one place—threads here stay linked to the story and in the forums. Sign in to start a discussion Start a conversation about this story and keep it linked here. Other hot threads E-sports and Gaming Community in Kenya Active 14 months ago The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture (AgriTech) Active 14 months ago Popular Recreational Activities Across Counties Active 14 months ago Investing in Youth Sports Development Programs Active 14 months ago

Aberfeldy's 24-Year-Old White Port Double Cask Finish is a whisky that 'transports you' Whisky World with Richard Elias: From Highlands to Lowlands, and from Speyside to Campbeltown and Islay, the Scottish Daily Express brings you the latest news, views and updates from across the Scotch whisky industry The Aberfeldy distillery has announced the latest addition to its Exceptional Cask Series range. The 24-Year-Old White Port Double Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky. It brings together two locations spread hundreds of miles apart yet with a clear connection. The new offering from the distillery in Perthshire embraces the banks of the River Tay to the sun-drenched vineyards of Portugal's Douro Valley. Since 1898, Aberfeldy has been producing whisky using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. It is a nod to the past which has been echoed on the steep, terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley long been celebrated for producing some of the world's most distinctive fortified wines. This combination has created the 24-Year-Old White Port Double Cask Finish. In this limited-edition release, carefully selected white Port casks lend a distinctive layer of character to Aberfeldy's signature honeyed style. The result is said to be a bright and elegant expression. Expect notes of ripe orchard fruits, honeyed apricots, citrus blossom and vanilla. Stephanie Macleod, renowned malt master at Aberfeldy explained: "The choice of white Port casks was a deliberate one. Port cask maturation is often known for bringing a lively character to whisky but white Port offers something particularly fresh and vibrant." She continued: "Rich in notes of citrus peel, stone fruits and delicate nuttiness, the casks complement rather than overpower Aberfeldy's signature honeyed style, creating an expression that feels bright, elegant and perfectly suited to the season. “With this release, we wanted to capture something unexpected: a whisky that retains the depth and refinement expected of a 24-Year-Old Single Malt while introducing a brighter, more expressive character through the White Port finish. It is a whisky that transports you, offering a taste of Portugal through the lens of Aberfeldy craftsmanship." With only 252 bottles available, Aberfeldy 24-Year-Old White Port Double Cask has a RRP of £350 and an ABV of 50.7%. Six years in the making It has been a long time coming but now one of Scotland's newest distilleries is ready to offer its first-ever single malt. The Jackton distillery is located near the village of Eaglesham, just outside of Glasgow, and already offers RAER Blended Scotch Whisky which offers notes of citrus and caramel making it a go-to for cocktail lovers. The family-owned distiller also already produces critically-acclaimed gin and vodka despite it only being founded by the RAER Spirits company just six years ago. The very first cask was filled on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 but now the waiting is almost over. Friday, September 4 will be the release day for the inaugural RAER Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Matured across Bourbon, Pedro Ximénez, Amontillado and Oloroso casks it is said to bring together richness, warmth and character. We are told to expect a flavour profile which hints at fruitcake, fig, sultana, dark fruits, treacle, roasted nuts, toffee, sweet spice and soft oak. Natural coloured, non-chill filtered, RAER Single Malt Scotch Whisky is limited to 6,000 and has an ABV of 48.7%. Ay oop, that's a right nice dram North Yorkshire-based may not be the first place you think of when asked about whisky but one company is endeavouring to change all that. Spirit of Yorkshire is celebrating a decade in business with its first 10-year-old age whisky, the Filey Bay 10 Year Old Single Cask "Decade of Distilling". Aged in ex-Bourbon and ex-Madeira casks, it was in June 2016 that the initial casks were filled. Just 192 bottles will be released the single estate distillery which grows all of its barley on its own farm. Spirit of Yorkshire’s whisky director, Joe Clark, explained: "This is a milestone release and a one-of-a-kind bottling for us. The vast majority of this whisky was distilled and laid down in our earliest years of production and matured in ex-Madeira casks." He added: "Integrating this spirit with whisky from our very first cask, Cask 001, makes Filey Bay 10th Anniversary Special Release absolutely unique and very different to anything we have released before. It is rich, fruity and spicy with flavours of fruit gums, vanilla slices, stone fruit, biscuit and honey. "It has chocolate box and sweet shop on the nose, crème patisserie on the palate and stone fruit, citrus and warm spices on the finish. It is very special!" Filey Bay First Release was bottled in September 2019 and since then, the business, based in Hunmanby, has grown and prospered. But now, the "Decade of Distilling" will be unveiled. However, it cannot be purchased as a standalone bottle and instead will be exclusively available as part of a £250 ticket for the "Decade of Distilling" Masterclass at the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery. To book see www.spiritofyorkshire.com

UK's whisky, cars, and beauty products now cheaper:India-UK Free Trade Agreement comes into effect today; list of products seeing price drop Cars, whisky, clothes, and footwear that India imports from UK will become cheaper in India in a phased manner from Wednesday, 15 July, 2026. This is because the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), officially known as CETA, will come into effect from today. From Wednesday, 99% of Indian goods will be exported to the UK at zero tariff, while 99% of UK goods will be imported into India at an average tariff of 3%. PM Modi hails India-UK trade deal How India & UK entered the agreement? Negotiations for the agreement between India and the UK began on January 13, 2022, and were completed after nearly 3.5 years. After 14 rounds of negotiations spanning nearly 3.5 years, the agreement was signed on 24 July , 2025, by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and British Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart Keir Starmer. Which items will become cheaper in India? From day one, India will remove tariffs on around 64% of UK products, including items such as salmon, lamb, aircraft parts, machinery and electronics. -GTRI The average tariff on goods imported from the UK will drop from 15% to 3%. Additionally, 85% of goods will become completely tariff-free over a span of 10 years. This will make several items cheaper: Whisky and Gin: India's tariff on Scotch whisky and gin imported from the UK will be slashed from 150% to 75%. It will be further reduced to 40% by the tenth year of the agreement. Example: A bottle of Scotch worth ₹5,000 will be available for ₹3,500. Luxury Cars: Tariffs on UK cars (such as Jaguar Land Rover and Rolls-Royce) will come down from 100% to 10% under a quota system. This could make these cars 20% to 30% cheaper. Food and Beverages: Tariffs on salmon, lamb, chocolates, biscuits, and soft drinks imported from the UK will be reduced, making these products more affordable. Cosmetics and Medical Devices: Lower tariffs on UK cosmetics, medical equipment, and aerospace parts will make these goods cheaper, with tariffs dropping from 15% to 3%. Fashion and Clothing: Branded clothes, fashion products, and homeware coming from the UK will become cheaper. Similarly, furniture and electronics will also be available at lower prices. India-UK trade size: Which Indian sectors will benefit? Sectors ranging from textiles to engineering, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals will benefit. Textile Sector: Indian apparel and home textiles (such as bedsheets and curtains), which previously faced an 8% to 12% tax in the UK, will now be completely tax-free. This will make our garments cheaper and far more competitive compared to countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam. Export hubs like Tiruppur, Surat, and Ludhiana could see up to 40% growth over the next three years. Jewellery and Leather Goods: There will no longer be any tax on jewellery and leather goods, such as bags and shoes, exported from India to the UK. This will greatly benefit small businesses (MSMEs) and luxury brands. Additionally, it will help expand India's footprint across Europe through the UK. Engineering Goods and Auto Parts: The UK has eliminated import taxes on Indian machinery, engineering tools, and auto parts (such as car components). This will further strengthen the industrial supply chains of India, the UK, and Europe, benefiting manufacturing hubs like Pune, Chennai, and Gurugram. Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: Indian pharmaceutical companies will get an easier registration process for generic medicines in the UK. This will facilitate smoother access for Indian medicines into the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and ensure faster drug approvals. Food, Tea, Spices, and Marine Products: The UK's import tax on Basmati rice, marine products like shrimp, premium tea, and spices will be eliminated. This will provide a major boost to the export industries in regions like Assam, Gujarat, Kerala, and West Bengal. Chemicals and Specialty Materials: Reduced taxes on agrochemicals, plastics, and specialty chemicals will boost exports from key hubs like Gujarat and Maharashtra. Under this deal, India aims to double its chemical exports to the UK by 2030. Green Energy: This agreement will pave the way for joint ventures in renewable energy, including solar, green hydrogen, and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. The UK will invest further in India's clean energy sector, leading to the co-development of new technologies. How will this deal benefit the Indian economy? The FTA is highly beneficial for the Indian economy in several ways: Boost in Exports: 99% of Indian goods will be exported to the UK at zero tariff. This will benefit sectors such as textiles, leather, gems and jewelry, marine products, and engineering goods. India's exports to the UK are projected to reach $29 billion by 2030. Job Creation: New jobs will be created in labor-intensive sectors like textiles and leather. In fact, employment in the textile sector has the potential to double. Boost to MSMEs: India's 60 million (6 crore) MSMEs, which contribute to 40% of India's total exports, will benefit significantly. This agreement will provide them with access to new markets and better profit margins. Increase in Investment: UK companies will increase their investments in India's IT, financial services, and green technology sectors. This will strengthen both India's manufacturing and service sectors. Economic Growth: This deal is expected to increase India-UK trade by 15% annually until 2030, helping India achieve its $100 billion trade target. Exceptions: India has protected some sensitive products. Exclusions reportedly include dairy products, apples, cheese, oats and selected animal and vegetable oils. Sensitive industrial products such as certain plastics, diamonds, silver, base stations, smartphones, television camera tubes and optical-fibre products are also excluded. - GTRI How many types of trade agreements are there? Free trade agreements are categorized and named differently based on their nature. These include: - PTA (Preferential Trade Agreement) - RTA (Regional Trade Agreement) - BTA (Bilateral Trade Agreement) The World Trade Organization (WTO) broadly refers to all such economic engagements as RTAs (Regional Trade Agreements). How many FTAs has India signed? India has signed trade agreements with Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Australia, the UAE, Mauritius, as well as the ASEAN and EFTA blocs. According to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), after securing deals with major Asian economies, India has shifted its FTA focus from the East (ASEAN, Japan, South Korea) toward Western partners. India is now prioritising FTAs with the EU and the US to expand its exports and strengthen trade relations with major Western economies.

Punjab Newsline | New Delhi India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) officially came into effect on Tuesday, marking a major milestone in economic ties between the two countries. The agreement is expected to make several British products including luxury cars, Scotch whisky, apparel, footwear, cosmetics, and premium food items significantly cheaper in India, while giving Indian exporters duty-free access to the UK market. Under the agreement, 99% of Indian goods will now enjoy zero-tariff access to the UK, while around 99% of UK products will be imported into India at an average tariff of just 3%. The deal is expected to double bilateral trade to nearly $120 billion by 2030. The agreement was signed on July 24, 2025, after nearly three years of negotiations spanning 14 rounds. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds signed the pact in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Ahead of its implementation, UK High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron described the agreement as a "historic moment" on social media platform X, saying it would usher in "a new era of growth" for both economies. What Gets Cheaper in India? - Scotch whisky and gin: Import duty slashed from 150% to 75%, with a further reduction to 40% by the tenth year of the agreement. A bottle priced at ₹5,000 could now cost around ₹3,500. - Cosmetics, medical devices, and aerospace parts: Tariffs will decline from around 15% to 3%, making these products cheaper. - Luxury cars: Tariffs on UK-made vehicles such as Jaguar Land Rover and Rolls-Royce will fall from around 100% to 10% under a quota system, potentially reducing prices by 20–30%. - Fashion and lifestyle products: Branded clothing, footwear, homeware, furniture, and electronics from the UK are expected to become more affordable. - Food and beverages: Lower duties on salmon, lamb, chocolates, biscuits, and soft drinks will reduce retail prices. - Major Boost for Indian Exports The FTA is expected to provide a strong push to India's export sectors: - Textiles and home furnishings: UK import duties of 8–12% on Indian garments, bed linen, curtains, and home textiles have been eliminated, making Indian products more competitive against Bangladesh and Vietnam. Export hubs such as Tiruppur, Surat, and Ludhiana could witness up to 40% growth over the next three years. - Pharmaceuticals: Indian generic drug manufacturers will benefit from a simplified registration process, enabling quicker approvals and easier access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS). - Agriculture and seafood: Import duties on Basmati rice, premium tea, spices, and seafood including shrimp have been removed, benefiting exporters from Assam, Gujarat, Kerala, and West Bengal. - Chemicals: Reduced tariffs on agrochemicals, plastics, and specialty chemicals are expected to strengthen exports from Gujarat and Maharashtra, with India targeting a doubling of chemical exports to the UK by 2030. - Jewellery and leather goods: Indian jewellery, handbags, footwear, and leather products will now enter the UK duty-free, providing a major boost to MSMEs and luxury brands. - Engineering goods and auto components: The UK has removed import duties on Indian machinery, engineering tools, and automobile parts, strengthening industrial supply chains linking India, the UK, and Europe. Clean Energy Collaboration Beyond trade, the agreement is expected to deepen cooperation in renewable energy through joint ventures in solar power, green hydrogen, and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Increased UK investment in India's clean energy sector is also expected to accelerate technology development and innovation.

Considered one of India’s most significant trade agreements in recent years, the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) came into force this week, marking a major milestone in bilateral economic relations. While the headlines highlight cheaper Scotch whisky and premium British imports, the deeper impact of the deal lies in boosting Indian exports, investments and long-term economic integration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the agreement as a “historic milestone,” stating that it will create opportunities for farmers, MSMEs, startups and innovators, while advancing India’s goal of becoming a developed economy by 2047. The agreement comes at a time when trade between the two nations is already on the rise. India-UK trade grew 8.62% to USD 25.12 billion in 2025-26, up from USD 23.13 billion in 2024-25. However, the trade balance has shifted—India’s exports declined 7.6% to USD 13.44 billion, while imports from the UK surged 36.11% to USD 11.68 billion. At the same time, foreign direct investment (FDI) from the UK into India rose to USD 1 billion in 2025-26, compared to USD 795 million in the previous year, reflecting growing investor confidence in the Indian market. A key highlight of the CETA is duty-free access for nearly 99% of Indian exports to the UK. This is expected to significantly enhance India’s competitiveness in a high-income market and drive growth across multiple sectors. Labour-intensive industries such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, marine products and pharmaceuticals are expected to benefit the most. The removal of tariffs is likely to improve margins, encourage higher production and generate employment across manufacturing clusters. The early gains are already visible in the gems and jewellery sector. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJPEC, said, "The first jewellery export consignment to the United Kingdom under the India–UK CETA is a defining milestone for India's gem and jewellery industry. The inaugural shipment, comprising USD 10 million worth of gold, diamond, silver and platinum jewellery from 27 exporters across six cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Chennai reflects the industry's readiness to leverage the unprecedented opportunities created by this landmark agreement.” “India–UK CETA eliminates UK import tariffs of up to 4% and gives Indian exporters a significant competitive advantage in the UK's USD 4 billion jewellery import market. With zero-duty market access, we expect India's gem and jewellery exports to the UK to grow from around USD 754 million in 2025 to nearly USD 2.5 billion over the next three years,” he added. The agreement also provides a strong push to India’s services sector, covering 137 sub-sectors including IT, consulting, healthcare and education. It enhances market access and regulatory clarity, making it easier for Indian professionals and companies to operate in the UK. A key provision—the Double Contribution Convention (DCC)—eliminates the need for Indian professionals on temporary assignments to contribute to social security in both countries. This reduces costs for both employers and employees and improves global competitiveness. For Indian consumers, the agreement is expected to make several premium British products more affordable over time. These include Scotch whisky, gin, luxury cars, cosmetics, chocolates and gourmet foods. However, tariff reductions will be phased, meaning price benefits will emerge gradually rather than immediately. Luxury cars, for instance, will see duties reduced progressively under a quota system, ensuring protection for domestic manufacturers and India’s growing EV ecosystem. While consumer benefits are visible, experts believe the broader significance of the deal lies in its long-term economic impact. Overall, the India-UK CETA represents more than just a trade agreement—it signals a strategic shift towards deeper engagement with advanced economies. With stronger export potential, rising investments and enhanced global competitiveness, the deal is expected to play a key role in shaping India’s economic trajectory in the years ahead. India's snacking industry is witnessing a significant transformation as consumers increasingly prioritize nutrition, transparency, and convenience over impulse purchases. Healthy snacking is no longer confined to fitness enthusiasts or niche consumers—it has become a mainstream lifestyle choice driven by greater awareness of wellness, preventive healthcare, and ingredient quality. As a result, brands are reimagining products with higher nutritional value, cleaner labels, and functional benefits while leveraging quick commerce and omnichannel retail to meet evolving consumer expectations. The Farmley Healthy Snacking Report 2026, based on insights from over 6,000 respondents across India, highlights how changing lifestyles and informed purchasing decisions are reshaping one of the country's fastest-growing FMCG categories. The findings suggest that Indian consumers are willing to pay more for healthier products, expect greater transparency from brands, and increasingly seek snacks that deliver both taste and nutrition. Protein has emerged as the defining factor in India's healthy snacking revolution. According to the report, 86 percent of consumers consider protein an important criterion while selecting snacks, while 32 percent are willing to pay a premium for protein-rich offerings. This reflects a major shift from protein being associated primarily with athletes and fitness enthusiasts to becoming an everyday nutritional requirement for a much broader consumer base. Consumer preferences are also moving decisively toward cleaner ingredients. Nearly 61 percent of respondents prefer snacks sweetened with natural ingredients such as dates and jaggery instead of refined sugar, indicating rising demand for products with simple ingredient lists and fewer artificial additives. At the same time, 62 percent of consumers say ingredient transparency is the biggest factor influencing their trust in a snack brand, ranking it ahead of celebrity endorsements and influencer recommendations. Speaking about the changing consumer mindset, Akash Sharma, Co-Founder of Farmley, says, "The future of snacking in India is being shaped by consumers who are making far more intentional choices than ever before. They are seeking snacks that offer functionality, transparency and convenience, while also catering to evolving taste profiles. At Farmley, we believe this evolution presents an opportunity to create products that deliver both nourishment and indulgence, without compromise." The report also points to the emergence of specialized nutrition segments that are expected to drive the next phase of category growth. More than half of the women surveyed expressed interest in snacks formulated to support nutritional needs during different phases of the menstrual cycle, highlighting the growing market for women's wellness and functional foods. Similarly, healthy eating is becoming a greater priority for families. Nearly 60 percent of parents said they are willing to pay more for healthier snack options for their children, reflecting the premiumization of kids' nutrition and increasing acceptance of better-for-you food choices. How consumers purchase snacks is evolving just as rapidly. The study found that 31 percent of respondents prefer Blinkit for snack purchases, followed by Zepto (16 percent) and Instamart (15 percent), underscoring the growing influence of quick commerce on impulse buying and convenience-led consumption. Despite this digital shift, physical retail remains highly relevant, with 35 percent of consumers saying shelf visibility continues to influence their purchase decisions. Packaging is also emerging as an important differentiator. Around 30 percent of respondents prefer resealable packs, while 25 percent favor eco-friendly packaging, indicating that convenience and sustainability

New Delhi: The much-anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has officially come into force on Wednesday. With the agreement coming into effect, both countries have significantly reduced the high tariffs imposed on imports and exports. As a result, several products imported from the UK will now be available in India at much lower prices. The official announcement regarding the implementation of this landmark deal was made last month (June). As per the information released by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the biggest beneficiaries of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will be the British Scotch and whisky industry. Currently, imported Scotch whisky in India attracts a steep 150 percent import tariff. Under the FTA, however, this duty will be reduced in phases to 40 percent. As a result, the prices of Scotch whisky and other British whiskies are expected to become significantly more affordable in the Indian market over time. It is worth noting that the deal is not only beneficial for the UK but also a major win for Indian exporters. A wide range of Indian products will enjoy duty-free access to the UK market with the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) coming into force. Earlier, Indian exporters had to pay customs duties of 12 percent on textiles and apparel, 10 percent on base metals, and 8 percent on chemicals. Under the FTA, 99 percent of Indian products will now be eligible for zero-duty exports to the UK. This will make Indian textiles, footwear, and various food products more competitive and affordable for British consumers. For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest Business News on India.com. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts Cookies Policy.

AI generated summary, newsroom reviewed Travel retail has long been the place where whisky lovers find bottles that rarely make it to regular liquor store shelves, and the Delhi Duty Free store is no exception when it comes to Scotch. With India's outbound travel numbers climbing and airport shopping becoming a destination in itself, Delhi Duty Free has rolled out a curated selection of aged Scotch whiskies, several of which are travel exclusives not easily found in the domestic market. We present here the Delhi Duty Free Scotch whisky price list including selections like Balvenie 18, Bowmore 19, Highland Park, Aberlour Auchentoshan Blood Oak, and Chivas Regal. Balvenie has built its reputation on patience, and this expression is a good example of why. Matured for 18 years in traditional oak before being finished in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, a style of fortified wine cask known for its deep, molasses like sweetness, the whisky picks up an intensely fruity character. Expect notes of honey, dark raisins, oak spice and cloves, the kind of profile that makes PX finished malts popular among collectors. Price: approximately Rs 25,140 Pre-order price: Rs 23,883 Bowmore is one of Islay's oldest working distilleries, and its whiskies are known for balancing smoke with sweetness rather than leaning purely on peat. This 19 year old, a travel exclusive, has had close to two decades to mellow, resulting in a malt that pairs classic peat smoke with dark chocolate, sea salt and caramelised fruit notes, a combination that longtime Bowmore drinkers will recognise. Price: approximately Rs 19,440 Pre-order price: Rs 18,468 Highland Park distils its whisky in the Orkney Islands, off the northern coast of Scotland, a region with strong Norse influence that the distillery often references in its releases. The Wings of the Eagle expression uses sherry seasoned oak casks, giving it a profile that combines gentle heather smoke with dried figs, nutmeg and apricot, a style that sits between the boldness of Islay and the softness of Speyside. Price: approximately Rs 12,090 Pre-order price: Rs 11,486 Aberlour is one of Speyside's better known names, a region often associated with fruitier, more approachable single malts. This particular expression uses a double cask approach, ageing separately in bourbon barrels and Oloroso sherry butts before the two are brought together, a method that gives the final whisky its layered profile of plum, floral notes and a spiced oak finish. Price: approximately Rs 12,390 Pre-order price: Rs 11,151 Auchentoshan is one of the few Scottish distilleries that triple distils its whisky, a technique more commonly associated with Irish whiskey, which gives its spirits a notably smoother, lighter character. The Blood Oak edition takes this further by finishing the whisky in French red wine casks, lending it a distinctive crimson tint along with flavours of raspberry, ginger, orange zest and honeyed spice. Price: approximately Rs 10,200 Pre-order price: Rs 9,180 Chivas Regal remains one of the most recognisable blended Scotch names globally, and this 13 year old expression adds a touch of exclusivity to the familiar blend. A portion of the whisky is finished in first fill Oloroso sherry casks, which brings forward notes of ripe pears in syrup, vanilla caramel, cinnamon and almonds, making it a more accessible entry point for those newer to premium blended Scotch. Price: approximately Rs 5,720 Pre-order price: Rs 5,148 Note: All the rates listed below have been sourced directly from the official Delhi Duty Free premium whisky price list on its website and reflect the latest available rates for 2026. However, airport retail prices are subject to change, so it's always worth checking the latest pricing before making a purchase.

Listen to this article in summarized format The India-UK trade deal was signed in London on July 24, 2025 by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. It took effect nearly a year later, on July 15, 2026. Also read: India-UK FTA: Rolls-Royce, Range Rover cars to get cheaper in India Here's a look at what could get cheaper, and when. Under the agreement, 99% of India's tariff lines get duty-free entry into the UK. In return, India will lower import duties on select British goods, most of them in stages over five to ten years rather than immediately. 1. Premium British cars Import duty on fully built UK cars, currently as high as 110%, will be reduced to 10% over ten years through an annual quota system. - Petrol and diesel models get concessional treatment from the outset. - Electric, hybrid and hydrogen vehicles will get preferential access only from the sixth year onward, giving India's domestic EV makers about five years of protection. - Over the first 15 years, India will allow import of 3.78 lakh fully built conventional engine passenger vehicles from the UK, including mass market models, at concessional duty. - Brands such as Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, McLaren, Jaguar and Land Rover are expected to benefit from the tariff reduction. UK trucks also see duty cuts. The existing 44% duty on fully built trucks will fall to 8.8% by the fifth year within a quota, and the annual quota will rise from 2,500 to 3,500 trucks. Trucks imported beyond the quota will see duty ease to 22% by year ten. 2. Scotch whisky and gin Import duty on Scotch whisky will fall from 150% to 75% immediately, then to 40% over the next ten years. - Gin will see a similar phased reduction. - Other premium spirits, including cider, mead, sake, brandy, bourbon, rum, vodka, liqueurs and tequila, will see duty fall from 150% to 110% in year one, and to 75% by year ten. - These cuts apply only above a minimum import price, generally around $5 to $6 per litre, or roughly $3.75 to $6 for a 750 ml bottle. Import duties will also come down over time on a broader set of British consumer goods, including chocolates, sweet biscuits, soft drinks, cosmetics, cosmetic soaps, perfumes, shaving creams and nail polish. Salmon and lamb are also among the UK food exports covered under the phased tariff reductions. 4. Medical devices and healthcare equipment Reduced tariffs are expected to lower costs on some imported UK healthcare equipment, including surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, ECG machines and X-ray systems. 5. Silver Silver is Britain's largest export to India by value. Under the agreement, India will gradually reduce the import tariff on silver to zero over ten years. According to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), silver and aerospace are among the sectors where the UK is expected to gain the most. 6. Luxury and lifestyle goods Select British luxury products, including fashion and lifestyle items, are expected to see lower prices as tariffs decline under the agreed schedule. What stayed outside the deal? India has kept several sensitive domestic sectors out of the tariff concessions. These include dairy products, cereals, millets, pulses, edible oils, oilseeds, fresh apples, walnuts, whey and modified whey, blue veined cheese, specified seed categories, gold bars, gold jewellery, lab grown diamonds, smartphones, optical fibre, critical energy products and marine vessels. Also read: India-UK FTA comes into effect today, unlocking duty-free access for Indian exports In total, India has opened 89.5% of its tariff lines, covering 91% of British exports, but only 24.5% of UK exports get immediate duty-free entry. The rest are phased in over five, seven or ten years, particularly for sectors covered under Make in India and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. What India gains in return? Indian exporters get zero-duty access to the UK across sectors that earlier faced tariffs of up to 70% on processed food, 21.5% on marine products, 18% on engineering goods and auto components, 16% on leather and footwear, 12% on textiles and clothing, and 8% on chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Trade between the two countries stood at $56 billion at the time the deal was signed, with both governments targeting a doubling by 2030. According to GTRI, Britain imported goods worth $928.9 billion in 2025, of which India's share was $15.2 billion, or 1.6%. The agreement also extends the Double Contribution Convention, under which Indian professionals on temporary UK assignments will be exempt from dual social security contributions for up to five years, up from three years earlier. The government estimates this will benefit more than 75,000 professionals and over 900 companies, with savings of more than ₹4,000 crore. GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava has said that tariff access alone will not guarantee higher exports, and that Indian exporters will still need to meet UK quality, food safety, traceability and certification requirements. Similarly, most of the price cuts on British goods in India are staggered over five to ten years, so their effect on prices is likely to unfold gradually rather than all at once.

It’s taken three years, but the moment is finally here. The Free Trade Agreement between India and the United Kingdom kicks into effect today (July 15), opening one of the country’s biggest export opportunities in recent years, and giving Indian manufacturers preferential entry into the world’s sixth-largest economy. The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and Double Contribution Convention (DCC) are a “gold standard” and one of the “most ambitious and aspirational free trade agreements” signed by India, said Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal on Tuesday (July 14). “This is one of the first free trade agreements (FTAs) of its kind, which establishes a future-oriented economic architecture between two major economies of the world,” added Agrawal. “This is also one of the most ambitious and aspirational FTAs of India, which we are operationalising as till date.” But what does this mean for the common man in India? Let’s understand. What’s the India-UK FTA all about? Before we dive into how the India-UK agreement benefits Indians, let’s better understand the trade deal. The FTA between the world’s fifth and sixth largest economies removes or reduces tariffs on 99 per cent of Indian exports to the UK and 90 per cent of UK imports into India. The UK has called it its “biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade pact” since leaving the European Union, with its GDP estimated to rise by 0.13 per cent. India’s, on the other hand, is expected to increase by 0.06 per cent. But the agreement, made up of 30 chapters, isn’t just about tariff cuts. It also covers areas such as digital trade, telecommunications, financial services, intellectual property, innovation, small and medium enterprises, sustainability, transparency, and government procurement. Indian professionals working in the UK are also set to benefit from social security relief as the Double Contributions Convention (DCC) comes into effect from July 15, allowing eligible temporary workers to avoid paying social security contributions in both countries for the agreed period. Which sectors in India are expected to gain? With the FTA coming into effect today, multiple sectors in India, such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, auto parts and engines, furniture, sports goods, chemicals, and machinery, stand to benefit. Goods in these sectors, until now, faced UK tariffs ranging from four per cent to 16 per cent. The removal of UK taxes on Indian garments and home textiles – which range from eight to 12 per cent – will make them more competitive against products from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. The Indian exports in this sector are projected to rise to up to 40 per cent in the next three years. Dipali Goenka, CEO of Welspun Living — the company that creates Wimbledon towels — told the BBC, “If you look at just home textiles, Pakistan’s share of UK exports is around 55 per cent, whereas India’s is just six-seven per cent. That’s the gap we can finally cover.” Zero tariffs on gold, diamond jewellery, and leather goods will also provide a boost for MSME exporters and luxury product manufacturers in India. The European country will also cut duties on Indian processed foods, basmati rice, shrimp, spices, and tea, giving a fillip to exports from Kerala, Assam, Gujarat, and West Bengal. Under the FTA, premium Indian food brands will have enhanced access to the UK market. Tariffs will also be removed on agrochemicals, industrial chemicals, and plastics. India’s chemical exports to the UK could double by 2030. Indian electric and hybrid vehicle makers are also set to benefit with preferential access to the UK under a quota system. Another sector to benefit is India’s steel segment. Under the FTA, India has secured a quota worth approximately $350 million, well above its average steel exports of around $200 million to the UK. This may enable India’s steel exports to the UK to touch $1 billion by FY2027. The India-UK FTA also brings relief to Indian professionals and employers through the Double Contribution Convention (DCC). As per this, Indians working temporarily in the UK won’t have to pay the UK’s National Insurance contributions during the five-year period. India’s Commerce Ministry notes that this provision will benefit more than 75,000 Indian workers and around 900 employers, translating into annual savings of over $600 million for industry and significantly improving the competitiveness of Indian firms operating in the UK. How will Indian customers benefit from the FTA? The India-UK FTA isn’t just beneficial to exporters; even the common man in the country stands to gain from this trade deal. As India cuts tariffs on certain items, they will become cheaper, a gain for the Indian customer. For instance, the India-UK FTA provides for tariff reductions on a broad range of premium alcoholic beverages. India has agreed to reduce tariffs on Scotch whisky and gin from 150 per cent to 75 per cent, and further to 40 per cent over the next 10 years. This means that the price of these spirits will reduce in the Indian market, making them more appealing to the Indian consumer. Moreover, through this trade deal, India has for the first time agreed to significantly lower import duties on fully built cars and trucks manufactured in the UK. The tariff on these vehicles will be reduced in phases from 110 per cent to 10 per cent. The deal notes that concessional treatment for petrol and diesel vehicles will begin on Day 1. Meanwhile, electric, hybrid and hydrogen-powered passenger vehicles will receive concessions from year six of the agreement. Tariffs on fully built trucks imported from the UK will also be slashed. Within the prescribed quota, the existing 44 per cent duty will be brought down to 8.8 per cent by the fifth year. The prices of cosmetics and beauty products imported from the UK are also expected to come down. Until now, these products attracted import duties of up to 22 per cent, which will either be eliminated immediately or gradually reduced to zero over a period of 10 years. British consumer goods such as chocolates, sweet biscuits, and soft drinks are also expected to get cheaper as tariffs on them will be slashed. According to the India-UK FTA, silver imports from Britain will also see a gradual reduction in tariffs. Levies on 99.9 per cent purity silver bars will be phased out over a period of 10 years. However, while duties are being reduced, all silver imports from the UK still require an import licence from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. British medical items such as surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, ECG machines, and X-ray systems will also see reduced tariffs. As Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal wrote in an opinion piece in the Times of India, “This ambitious agreement will empower every section of society. Women, farmers, youth, MSMEs, innovators, professionals and fisherfolk, all stand to gain from the opportunities it creates.” With inputs from agencies First Published: July 15, 2026, 11:53 IST

The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), and the Agreement on Social Security—also referred to as the Double Contribution Convention (DCC)— signed between India and the United Kingdom came into force on Wednesday (July 15, 2026). "With the coming into force of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and the Agreement on Social Security, our economic linkages are going to get even deeper. Together, these agreements translate our shared ambition into tangible opportunities for our people," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. "The CETA will give fresh momentum to our farmers, entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Several vibrant sectors will gain stronger access to the UK market. It will also deepen cooperation in technology, professional services and innovation, while supporting greater mobility for skilled Indian talent. The social security agreement will provide invaluable support to Indian professionals working temporarily in the UK and strengthen the competitiveness of Indian enterprises," he added. Under the CETA, India will reduce tariffs on a large number of British products over a phased period, while the UK will eliminate tariffs on almost all Indian exports. Among the products that are expected to become cheaper in India are premium Scotch whisky and gin, as import duties on these products will be reduced in phases. The tariff on whisky, currently 150 per cent, will be brought down to 75 per cent initially and further reduced to 40 per cent over the next decade, making imported British spirits more affordable. Luxury automobiles manufactured in the UK are also expected to become less expensive. Import duties on a specified quota of British cars are set to decline gradually, potentially lowering prices of brands such as Jaguar Land Rover, Bentley, Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce. Consumers may also benefit from lower prices on select British food and beverage products, including chocolates, biscuits, salmon, lamb, soft drinks and speciality packaged foods, as customs duties are eased under the agreement. Certain cosmetics, medical devices and industrial machinery imported from the UK could also become more competitively priced over time. On the export front, Indian products are expected to gain significantly from duty-free access to the UK market. Labour-intensive sectors such as textiles and garments, footwear, leather products, gems and jewellery, marine products, engineering goods, auto components, organic chemicals and processed food are likely to become more competitive, improving export opportunities for Indian manufacturers. While cheaper imports may benefit consumers, the broader objective of the agreement is to expand two-way trade, create employment through higher exports and attract greater investment. The long-term impact on prices will depend on the pace of tariff implementation and the extent to which businesses pass on the benefits of lower import duties to consumers. CETA, according to a press statement, was concluded on May 6, 2025, following fourteen intensive rounds of negotiations. The agreement was officially signed on July 24, 2025 in London by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, and the UK's Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. To complete the framework, the companion DCC was subsequently signed on February 10, 2026. (With inputs from ANI)

Anyone visiting a distillery will often come face to face with a Porteus mill, where the grain is ground into grist, the final product made up of husks, flour (the fine meal), and grits. Multiple rollers ensure the barley is prepared in just the right proportions before it’s transferred to the mash tun to extract the sugars. This traditional method, known as milling, carried out by the rock-solid Porteus mill, is by far the most common. Hammer mills for crushing barley But there are also distilleries that use what’s called a hammer mill. This mill crushes the barley, and it can rightly be called innovative. The InchDairnie Distillery in Fife, founded in 2016, uses such a hammer mill, grinding the barley down to a fine powder. This fine powder goes into a mash tun and is then pressed through a filter, the mash filter, to extract the sugars. If you were to mix this powder with water in a traditional mash tun, the filter bed at the bottom would clog and bring the process to a halt. That’s why the mash filter is essential for turning the hammer mill’s output into a high-sugar wort. Another advantage of the hammer mill is that it can process various grains in addition to barley. The Scottish distillery is exploring this to the full. One of InchDairnie’s mottos is “more sugars, more flavor.” Another Scottish distillery using a hammer mill and a mash filter is Teaninich, which produces single malt whisky under the Diageo umbrella. It’s used, among others, in Johnnie Walker. Teaninich’s bright wort delivers a distinctly fresh and floral character. Whisky as a tribute to the hammer mill There’s also a Czech whisky called Hammerhead, a tribute to the 1928 hammer mill housed in the now-closed Pradlo distillery. Bottles of Hammerhead are still available, though the older releases are becoming scarce. FAQ - What is a hammer mill in a distillery? A hammer mill is a machine that grinds malt or other grains using rapidly spinning hammers. The result is an even grind for the mashing process. - Why do distilleries use a hammer mill? A hammer mill can process large quantities of grain quickly and consistently, allowing sugars to be released efficiently during mashing. - What’s the difference between a hammer mill and a traditional malt mill? A traditional malt mill uses rollers to crush the kernels, leaving the husks largely intact. A hammer mill grinds the grain much finer.

Explained | From luxury cars and Scotch whisky to medical equipment: Here's what gets cheaper as India-UK FTA comes into effect New Delhi will lower import duty over a period of time on several goods it imports from a UK, making many British-manufactured products cheaper in India.

Scotland has officially welcomed a new whisky distillery. Dunnet Bay Distillers has fired up the stills at Stannergill Distillery in Caithness. After nearly two years of construction and restoration, the first spirit flowed from the stills this week. The new distillery is housed in Castletown Mill, a building of around 200 years old in the north of the Scottish Highlands. That makes Stannergill one of the northernmost whisky distilleries on the Scottish mainland. Stannergill Distillery crafts single malt whisky in Caithness Before this week’s first spirit destined for whisky was drawn, production actually began on 30 June. Stannergill Distillery started mashing that day, and the stills were fired up as well. The distillery’s founders, Claire and Martin Murray, are incredibly proud of this moment. The road to that first spirit wasn’t without setbacks, but the couple say it’s leading to a whisky with a clear, distinctive style. 'Everything here has been carefully designed, from fermentation through distillation, to produce a spirit that truly reflects this landscape while setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency in our industry.' - Martin MurrayThe distillery is focused on producing Scotch single malt whisky. New Scottish whisky distillery not quite finished yet Energy efficiency was a major priority in the design of Stannergill Distillery. For example, the distillery uses an electric boiler to generate steam, which means there are no direct on-site emissions from that process. For a new operation, the capacity is anything but small. Stannergill is expected to produce around 240,000 liters of alcohol annually. Two copper pot stills handle the distillation: the 5,000-liter wash still is named Anna, and the 3,500-liter spirit still is called Isla. Both are named after the daughters of founders Claire and Martin Murray. The site isn’t fully complete yet. Work is still underway on a dedicated warehouse for whisky maturation. Visitor center, tours, and restaurant at Stannergill Stannergill aims to be more than a production site—it’s set to become a new destination for whisky tourists. A visitor center is planned, offering tours and tastings for enthusiasts. The site is also home to The Grain Store Restaurant. The restaurant opened back in March 2026 and is a key part of the visitor experience. Dunnet Bay Distillers was founded in 2014 by Claire and Martin Murray. The company is known for Rock Rose Gin, Holy Grass Vodka, Mapmaker’s Rum, and Myxd Cocktails. Since 2022, it has also released whisky under the Castletown Mill and Stannergill Whisky names. With the start of in-house production, a new chapter begins. It will be a few more years before we can taste the first whisky, but it’s well on its way. FAQ - Where is Stannergill Distillery located? Stannergill Distillery is in Caithness, in the far north of the Scottish Highlands. - What whisky does Stannergill Distillery make? The distillery focuses on producing Scotch single malt whisky. - When will the first Stannergill single malt be released? The first house whisky can be sold as Scotch only after a minimum of three years of maturation.

Good spirits Whisky curator toasts US growth and return to India Andrew Dane: good start to the year Andrew Dane, chief executive of whisky curator The Artisanal Spirits Company, said it had seen strong growth in the US, despite a difficult backdrop, and looked forward to the removal of import duties this month. The 10% tariff imposed on Scotch whisky by Donald Trump during a fractious global trade dispute will be lifted on 25 July. The owner of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society is also looking to return to the Indian market following the UK-India trade agreement that reduced tariffs from 150% to 74% from today. Mr Dane said there would be no short term financial benefits from the India deal, but it would enable the company to build partners ahead of further tariff cuts to 40% in the years ahead. In the meantime, bottle sales had seen three consecutive quarters of high single digit growth in the US. Australia was up double digits, while UK venues, UK Online and China were relatively flat. EU Online declined by approximately 10% as consumer caution continued and the company continued to control costs accordingly. “It has been quite a good start to the year. The core business has gone back to decent growth,” he said in a call with Daily Business to discuss the latest trading update. Speaking about a return to India a decade since it last traded in the country, he said: “We signed a franchise agreement last year. There is no significant gain in the short term. It is about making sure we get the right partners. “It is a bigger driver in the medium term. In the short term it is a benefit for the wider Scotch industry and that has to be a good thing.” The company said branded sales grew by high single digits, offsetting lower trade cask sales, resulting in group revenue broadly in line with the prior year. EBITDA was maintained due to improved branded business performance and cost control, while net cash flow improved by approximately £1.5 million. The company remains confident in delivering its full-year expectations for FY26, driven by continued momentum in its branded businesses and anticipated trade cask sales in the second half. Bulletin: Sign up for our breakfast email of the day’s breaking news

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement has brought cheer to Scotch whisky makers with a sharp reduction in import duties, but consumers may have to wait before seeing a significant fall in bottle prices. Under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), India has reduced customs duty on UK whisky from 150 per cent to 75 per cent from July 15, with the tariff set to gradually fall further to 40 per cent over the next 10 years. The move is expected to improve market access for Scotch whisky and other qualifying UK spirits in India. However, industry experts said the reduction in import duty alone will not translate into an equivalent decline in retail prices. Import duties are only one component of the final price paid by consumers. State excise duties, registration fees, distribution margins, logistics costs and retailer margins will continue to influence the price of imported whisky across Indian markets. “While the reduction in import duties under the India-UK FTA is significant, retail prices are not expected to decline proportionately. Import duty represents only one component of the final retail price, with state excise duties, VAT, distributor margins, retail margins, logistics and packaging continuing to account for a substantial portion of the MRP,” said Paul P. John, Chairman of John Distilleries. He added that consumers could initially see price reductions of around 5-10 per cent, with the actual impact varying across states depending on their tax structures. The benefits are likely to appear gradually over the next six to 12 months as existing inventory is cleared and revised pricing takes effect. Quick Reads View All“Bottled-in-origin Scotch is expected to benefit the most from the tariff reduction, while bulk-imported Scotch that is bottled in India is likely to see more limited benefits,” John said. Scotch duty cut opens premium spirits market The tariff reduction is among the most commercially significant outcomes of the India-UK trade agreement for the UK spirits industry. Prabhat Ranjan, Senior Director at Nexdigm, said the reduction in customs duty on UK whisky and gin would significantly expand market access for Scotch and other qualifying UK spirits. However, he cautioned that the impact would depend on several factors beyond tariff cuts. “State excise duties, registration fees, distribution margins and local pricing structures will still be part of the final consumer price,” Ranjan added. He said the phased tariff reduction provides a balance between expanding consumer choice and protecting domestic producers from a sudden competitive shock. Indian whisky makers see opportunity, not threat While lower import duties could increase competition from Scotch brands, Indian single malt producers believe the development will expand the overall premium whisky category rather than threaten domestic players. Praveen Malviya, CEO of Piccadily Agro Industries, said the tariff reduction would help bring more consumers into the premium whisky segment. “We welcome it. A tariff reduction will expand the entire premium category, bringing more consumers into the fold of high-quality whisky,” Malviya said. He said Indian brands such as Indri have already demonstrated their ability to compete with established Scotch labels globally. “Indri has already competed with these established Scotch labels on the global stage in blind tastings — and we have won. Our confidence lies in our liquid and we were never competing on price,” he added. Malviya said changing consumer preferences could benefit Indian single malts as buyers increasingly focus on quality, craftsmanship, authenticity and brand experience rather than only the country of origin. “Today’s consumers are increasingly informed and are choosing whiskies based on quality, craftsmanship, authenticity and the overall brand experience, rather than country of origin alone,” he said. Competition could strengthen premium whisky market Industry executives believe the India-UK FTA could accelerate the premiumisation trend in India’s whisky market by giving consumers access to a wider range of products. John said increased competition from Scotch would create opportunities for quality-focused Indian producers. “The India-UK FTA is expected to have a positive long-term impact on the Indian whisky market by increasing competition and expanding consumer choice,” he said. According to him, Indian single malt brands have already established their identity through quality and craftsmanship and should continue focusing on producing world-class whiskies rather than competing only on price. “The Indian single malt category has already demonstrated its quality and has carved out its own space in both domestic and international markets,” John said. He added that consumers choosing premium single malts are generally influenced by quality and brand proposition rather than small price differences. Can India become a global whisky powerhouse? Indian whisky makers believe the country has the potential to emerge as a major global player in the premium spirits market. John said India has already shown its ability to produce internationally recognised single malts and that continued focus on quality, consistency and craftsmanship would be key to strengthening the category. “India has already demonstrated its ability to produce world-class single malts that are recognised across international markets,” he said. Malviya also said the agreement should be viewed as an opportunity to expand the overall market rather than a threat to Indian brands. “Looking ahead, we don’t see this as a threat to our market share, but as an opportunity to grow the size of the pie,” he said. He added that sustained investment in quality, innovation and global market development would help Indian single malts establish themselves as a recognised category worldwide. Implementation remains key challenge Experts said the success of the whisky tariff reduction will depend on how effectively the agreement is implemented. Ranjan said preferential access must be supported by strict rules of origin and verification mechanisms to ensure that only eligible products receive treaty benefits. “The tariff concession will also have a very uneven effect across markets unless state excise and licensing regimes respond in a consistent manner,” he said. The India-UK CETA marks a major shift in the premium spirits market, but the journey from lower import duties to cheaper Scotch bottles will depend on state-level taxes, pricing strategies and how quickly businesses adjust to the new trade environment. For consumers, the agreement could eventually mean greater choice and improved access to global whisky brands. For Indian producers, it could provide a larger platform to prove that domestic single malts can compete with the world’s best. Frequently Asked Questions Will Scotch whisky prices drop significantly across all Indian states? Scotch whisky prices are unlikely to drop significantly across all Indian states immediately, despite a reduction in import duties as part of the India-UK FTA. How will the FTA impact Indian single malt producers long-term? The India-UK FTA is expected to have a positive long-term impact on the Indian whisky market by increasing competition and expanding consumer choice. Indian single malt producers see this as an opportunity to expand the premium whisky category, rather than a threat. What other factors influence whisky prices besides import duties? Besides import duties, whisky prices are influenced by state excise duties, registration charges, distribution margins, and other costs. Central customs duties, state excise, and VAT also contribute to the final price. First Published: July 15, 2026, 11:30 IST

Secret Garden Distillery enters liquidation Scottish gin producer Secret Garden Distillery has gone into voluntary liquidation and is no longer trading. Gareth David Wilcox and Mark Harper of Opus Restructuring have been appointed joint liquidators of the company. The company was placed into liquidation on 1 July with special resolution passed that it would be wound up voluntarily. Filings on Companies House also show that Secret Garden’s registered address has been changed from its site on Old Pentland Road on the outskirts of Edinburgh to Opus’ office in Glasgow. A statement on the distillery’s website reads: “Secret Garden Distillery Limited has entered creditors’ voluntary liquidation and is no longer trading.” Enquiries are being directed to the administrators. Sisters Imogen and Isobel Armstrong and their mother, Kate Armstrong, acquired the business in August 2022, which was previously named the Old Curiosity Distillery. “When we acquired The Secret Garden Distillery, it mainly produced gins for contract distilling. Now, we have concentrated our efforts on building a gin brand that we can proudly call our own,” Imogen Armstrong told The Spirits Business in 2024. The distillery’s core gin range includes Rose, Elderflower & Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon Verbena and Pinot Noir Gin, as well as its seasonal summer release and a Winter Gin. It also offered discovery tours through its botanical garden and glasshouse. Its Alchemy Experience invited guests to explore the full botanical range and craft their own gin to take home. At blind-tasting competition The Gin Masters 2024, Secret Garden Distillery was recognised with three Gold and three Silver medals. The Armstrong sisters were also shortlisted at The Spirits Business Awards 2024 in the Young Achiever of the Year category. In July last year, the brand launched in France in partnership with Premium Craft Spirits. The Spirits Business has reached out to both the Secret Garden Distillery and its administrators for comment.

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