New Delhi, June 24: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will embark on an official visit to the United Kingdom from June 25 to 27, 2026. This trip comes ahead of the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) on July 15, 2026. It is seen as a significant step towards enhancing economic ties between India and the UK, as stated in an official announcement on Wednesday.
During the visit, Goyal will hold high-level bilateral meetings with the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Peter Kyle. The primary aim of these discussions will be to review preparations for the effective implementation of CETA and DCC, and to strengthen economic partnerships between the two nations.
The meetings will focus on coordinating regulatory processes, simplifying customs arrangements, and finalizing the necessary administrative mechanisms for smooth implementation of agreements. Both parties will also assess preparations for tariff liberalization under CETA, which is expected to provide Indian exporters with increased opportunities in the UK market.
Additionally, the roadmap for implementing the Double Contribution Convention (DCC) will be discussed. This agreement aims to alleviate the issue of dual social security contributions for professionals and employees working abroad, thereby promoting global mobility for businesses and professionals.
The statement further noted that discussions will also cover market access issues across various service sectors. Both countries will explore measures to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations. This initiative is considered crucial for expanding global economic opportunities and promoting a rules-based, transparent trading system in line with the vision of ‘Developed India.’
During his visit, Minister Goyal will participate in several important Government-to-Business (G2B) programs. He will address the inaugural session of the India Global Forum (IGF), focusing on “Capital, Innovation, and the UK-India Moment.” This session will delve into emerging opportunities for global business following the implementation of the India-UK CETA.
Goyal will also hold separate meetings with senior executives from major global companies, including HSBC (Global Trade Solutions) and Rolls-Royce. These discussions will center on strategic investments, industrial collaboration, and expanding manufacturing partnerships in India.
According to the statement, the minister will attend a business plenary and special lunch organized by the UK-India Business Council (UKIBC). Top officials from leading multinational companies such as Tata Group, TCS, HSBC, Prudential, De Beers, and Baker McKenzie will participate, discussing new trade and investment opportunities under the India-UK economic partnership.
To enhance dialogue with investors and the global industry, Goyal will chair a special roundtable discussion hosted by Asia House in London. Senior officials from international financial and industrial institutions, including JP Morgan, Standard Chartered, Lloyds, Morgan Stanley, and Arup, will be present. The discussion will focus on India’s industrial competitiveness, investment climate, and its role in the global supply chain.
At the end of the visit, Goyal will engage with representatives from the Indian industry delegation, the British-Indian business community, and global education groups. This trip is expected to give a new impetus to economic cooperation between India and the UK, playing a crucial role in achieving the target of $120 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.
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