The G20 Summit of 2023 witnessed a significant milestone in global trade as India and the United Kingdom forged crucial trade agreements that promise to reshape their economic relationship. In a world grappling with economic uncertainties and challenges, these agreements mark a step forward in strengthening international cooperation and economic growth. This blog explores the key aspects of the India-UK trade partnership and its implications.
What is the G20 Summit?
The G20 is known as the Group of Twenty or an international forum comprising 19 of the world's largest economies and the European Union. Each year, one member country presides over the G20, hosts its annual summit, and shapes the agenda. In 2023, all eyes will be on India as it assumes the G20 Presidency, providing the nation with a unique opportunity to drive discussions on global economic issues, including foreign trade.
What is the role of the G20 in Global trade?
The Group of Twenty (G20) is an intergovernmental forum that brings together the leaders of 19 nations and the European Union. International financial stability and economic cooperation are its main priorities. The G20 members discuss a variety of economic and financial issues, including trade; but, while trade plays a vital role in global commerce, it is not the G20's only objective.
It contributes significantly to the development and reinforcement of the world commerce system. The G20 has promised to:
- Keep markets open and refrain from raising new restrictions on trade.
- Reform the World Trade Organization (WTO) to make it more effective and inclusive.
- Promote trade in services and investment.
- Address the challenges of global value chains.
- Increase fair and sustainable trade.
India and the UK for an early conclusion of the free trade pact:
In a strong indication of clinching a deal this year, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that India and the United Kingdom have made extensive progress toward signing a free-trade agreement.
Speaking to ANI, Rishi Sunak said, "Both Modi Ji and I are keen to see a comprehensive and ambitious trade deal concluded between our two countries. Both of us think that there is a good deal to be done."
Based on Global Trade Data, India’s merchandise exports to the UK reached a total of US$10 billion between April 2022 and February 2023, accounting for 2.5 percent of the overall export share. During that period, merchandise imports from the UK amounted to US$8 billion, representing 1.3 percent of all imports.
In line with the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Roadmap 2030, the two leaders (PM Modi and Rishi Sunak) noted with satisfaction the progress made in a variety of bilateral cooperation areas, particularly in the economy, defense, and security, technology, green technology, climate change, health, and mobility sectors. The Ministry of External Affairs reported that the two leaders also discussed important regional and global issues of common concern.
They also reviewed the development of Free Trade Agreement negotiations and expressed hope that the remaining issues could be addressed at the earliest so that a balanced, mutually beneficial, and forward-looking Free Trade Agreement is concluded soon, the statement read.
UK and India Trade Agreements after G20 2023
The UK and India have been negotiating a free trade agreement (FTA) since January 2021. The talks have been progressing slowly, but there was a renewed sense of optimism after the G20 summit in New Delhi in September 2023.
In a meeting at the G20 summit, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to "work at pace" towards an agreement. They also agreed to set up a new working group to address the remaining issues, such as tariffs on goods and services, investment, and intellectual property.
One of the biggest challenges is the issue of visas or work permits. India is seeking greater access for its citizens to work in the UK, but the UK government is reluctant to give ground on this issue. Despite the challenges, there is a strong political will on both sides to reach a deal. The UK sees India as a key partner in its post-Brexit trade strategy, while India is looking to the UK as a source of investment and technology.
If a deal can be reached, it would be a major boost for both economies. It would create new jobs, boost investment, and help diversify trade. It would also be a sign of the growing economic ties between the UK and India.
Here are some of the potential benefits of a UK-India FTA:
- Global trade: As per the Global Trade Data, the FTA would remove tariffs on goods and services traded between the two countries, which would boost trade and investment. It sets an example for other nations to follow, fostering a more interconnected and cooperative world economy.
- More jobs: The FTA would create new jobs in both countries as businesses would be able to export more goods and services to each other.
- Increased investment: The FTA would make it easier for businesses to invest in each other's countries, which would create jobs and boost economic growth.
- Diversified trade: The FTA would help to diversify trade between the two countries, which would make both economies more resilient to shocks.
- Strategic cooperation: The FTA would help to increase cooperation between the two countries on issues such as climate change, security, and technology.
- Political Relations: Strengthening economic ties often leads to stronger political relations. This could pave the way for increased collaboration on various global issues, including climate change, security, and healthcare.
The UK-India FTA is a significant opportunity for both countries. If the deal gets signed, it would be a major boost for the global economy.
Conclusion
The India-UK trade agreements forged at the G20 Summit of 2023 mark a significant step towards strengthening their economic partnership. These agreements promise to reshape trade relations, foster economic growth, and set an example for international cooperation. As India and the UK embrace this new era of collaboration, the world watches with anticipation to see how this partnership will contribute to global economic stability and prosperity.
Want to know what India is exporting and importing? Get access to India trade data and Global trade data on EximPedia.app. Our export and import data is up-to-date, and it can help you make informed decisions about your business. Start your free live demo today!
