South Yorkshire in the United Kingdom is looking to attract Indian investment across advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable aviation, energy and preventive healthcare, with the UK-India free trade agreement (FTA) expected to strengthen business opportunities between the two countries.
Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire, outlined the region’s investment ambitions during an interaction with ANI on the sidelines of the 16th session of the India-UK Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO). He said the region sees significant potential in India’s expanding economy and aims to attract Indian companies while helping South Yorkshire businesses increase their presence in the Indian market.
Coppard said South Yorkshire had recently secured a seven-figure investment from Indian company Raghu Vamsey, which is expected to create jobs in the region through its advanced manufacturing expertise. He highlighted the region’s capabilities in advanced manufacturing, energy, materials, sustainable aviation and defence as areas where Indian businesses could explore partnerships.
The region is also preparing for the planned reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport and is interested in working with Indian investors on sustainable aviation and potential new air routes connecting the UK with other markets.
Beyond aviation and manufacturing, South Yorkshire is seeking investment in energy, materials, digital technology, AI, quantum computing and start-ups. Coppard pointed to the presence of companies such as ITM Power, which operates in the hydrogen sector, as an example of the region’s capabilities in emerging energy technologies. Preventive healthcare is another priority, with the region working to develop its health economy.
Coppard said the delegation of mayors from northern England had chosen India for its first overseas group visit because of the country’s market size, rapid economic development and range of business opportunities. He estimated that the wider investment opportunity across northern England could reach around £400 million if the regions successfully capitalise on available opportunities.
The UK-India FTA is expected to support trade, investment and industrial collaboration by improving market access and creating a more predictable framework for businesses. The agreement entered into force on July 15, 2026, and both countries are working to maximise its benefits through business engagement and sectoral cooperation.
South Yorkshire’s outreach reflects the broader effort to deepen economic ties between India and the UK, with regional governments seeking partnerships in technology, manufacturing, clean energy and other sectors where businesses from both countries can collaborate.
