First cargo shipment flagged off from Amritsar airport under India-UK FTA
Amritsar, July 15
Following the implementation of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, the first cargo shipment to the United Kingdom was flagged off from the cargo terminal at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by officials from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), cargo department officials, and exporters.
During the event, the complete cargo handling process, including packing, scanning, and transportation of cargo containers to the aircraft, was showcased. The first shipment was then ceremonially flagged off for the UK.
Speaking to ANI on the occasion, Aditya Singh Chauhan, Deputy Director of DGFT, said, "Under the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, nearly 99 per cent of Indian products will now enjoy zero-duty access to the UK market."
He stated that earlier, ready-made garments attracted import duties ranging from 12 per cent to 20 per cent, making Indian products less competitive. With the removal of these duties, Indian exporters will gain a significant advantage, leading to increased exports and better business opportunities.
Azad Singh, in charge of Amritsar Cargo, said that the first shipment under the agreement consists of ready-made garments being exported to the UK.
"Although exports from Amritsar to the UK were already taking place, the zero-tariff agreement is expected to encourage many more exporters to enter the international market," he added.
He further informed that Amritsar Cargo primarily exports ready-made garments, sports goods, engineering products, and perishable agricultural produce such as Alphonso and Kesar mangoes, baby corn, green chillies, and other vegetables.
He expressed confidence that the agreement would open new opportunities for exporters from Punjab and further strengthen trade relations between India and the United Kingdom.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Happy to see this, but I hope the benefits actually reach small exporters and farmers in rural Punjab, not just big businesses. Zero tariff is great, but logistics and infrastructure still need improvement. Let's see how this plays out.
Fantastic news for Indian exporters! 99% zero-duty access to the UK is a game-changer. Amritsar's mangoes and garments are world-class. This FTA is a win-win. Looking forward to more such corridors!
Very proud moment for Punjab! From Amritsari naan to ready-made garments going to UK duty-free — this is what Make in India looks like. But we need more such airports in smaller cities to boost local economies.
Excellent initiative! The zero-duty on mangoes and vegetables will really help our farmers. I just hope the customs process is smooth and not bureaucratic. Still, a great step for India-UK trade relations. 🌏👏
This is a smart move for both countries. Indian textiles and fresh produce are top quality. The FTA is a great opportunity for MSMEs in Punjab. Let's hope the momentum continues!
Great start but remember — this
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