The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to provide a major advantage to India’s steel industry, with nearly 85% of Indian steel exports to the United Kingdom being exempt from safeguard measures.
The exemption is expected to improve market access for Indian steel producers and enhance the competitiveness of their products in the UK market.
Safeguard measures are trade restrictions imposed to protect domestic industries from a sudden surge in imports. Under the new agreement, a large share of Indian steel exports will enjoy preferential treatment, reducing the risk of additional duties or trade barriers.
Industry experts believe the move could help Indian steel companies expand their presence in the UK, one of Europe’s key steel-consuming markets, while supporting export growth and capacity utilization.
The agreement is also expected to strengthen economic ties between India and the UK by facilitating smoother trade flows across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, and industrial goods.
For India’s steel sector, which has been seeking greater access to global markets amid rising competition and protectionist measures in some regions, the FTA represents a significant opportunity to boost exports and improve long-term growth prospects.
