Bridge India, a leading think tank focused on the UK–India corridor, has welcomed the signing of the historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the United Kingdom and India, calling it a “major step forward” in strengthening bilateral economic and strategic ties.
Pratik Dattani, Founder of Bridge India, praised the agreement for its potential to unlock significant economic benefits for both nations. “At a time of global uncertainty, the agreement represents a major step forward in strengthening the economic and strategic partnership between these two great nations,” Dattani said in a statement.
Signed after years of complex negotiations, the FTA promises to open up new avenues for businesses in both countries, particularly in the goods and services sectors. Bridge India believes the agreement will help drive economic prosperity, support job creation, and foster innovation across various industries.
“This agreement will unlock new opportunities for businesses in the goods and services sectors in both countries, driving greater economic prosperity, job creation and innovation across large parts of the economy,” Dattani added.
The announcement comes as Bridge India prepares to host its flagship conference Ideas for India — an annual gathering that brings together thought leaders across business, entrepreneurship, technology, policymaking and diaspora engagement. According to Dattani, this year’s conference will be the first major international platform to explore the practical implications of the new FTA in a changing global economic landscape.
Held in London, Ideas for India has grown to become a significant platform for debate and discussion around UK–India relations. This year’s edition is expected to delve into how the FTA can be a catalyst for deeper commercial and cultural ties.
Bridge India, through its extensive membership network of job-creators, innovators and business leaders, has long advocated for enhanced UK–India cooperation. Dattani said the organisation is proud to have championed the cause of closer bilateral ties and believes the FTA marks a turning point in that journey.
“As an organisation, we are proud to have championed the cause of deeper bilateral ties,” Dattani noted, emphasising that Bridge India’s members are already contributing to strengthening the economic bridge between the two countries.
The UK–India FTA, now seen as a blueprint for future trade partnerships between democracies, signals a shared commitment to collaboration, prosperity, and resilience — especially important amid ongoing global economic challenges.
