New Delhi, August 13, 2025 — The proposed India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is expected to significantly benefit India’s mineral sector, particularly the aluminium industry, by enhancing market access, reducing tariffs, and fostering research and development collaboration.
At a high-level webinar chaired by Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao, senior officials from the Ministry of Mines, representatives from the High Commission of India in London, and leaders from major industry associations—including the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI), Aluminium Association of India (AAI), and Aluminium Secondary Manufacturers Association (ASMA)—gathered to explore the trade pact’s potential impact.
Rao emphasized that CETA could open new export markets for Indian minerals and improve competitiveness in the UK. He called for targeted roadshows to better understand UK product demand and highlighted the agreement’s Innovation Chapter as a framework for joint R&D initiatives.
Industry leaders welcomed the pact, citing its potential to reduce tariffs and streamline supply chains. Rajiv Kumar, CEO (Aluminium) at Vedanta Group, outlined gains for aluminium producers, while executives from NALCO, BALCO, Hindalco, and other key players discussed strategies to expand exports and boost recycling capabilities.
Dr. Anupam Agnihotri, Director of the Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC), stressed the importance of institutional R&D cooperation, innovation, and sustainability as drivers of long-term growth.
Under the agreement, India will reduce tariffs on 90% of British products, while the UK will offer duty-free access to 99% of Indian exports. This easing of trade barriers is expected to lower costs, improve competitiveness, and unlock new opportunities for Indian mineral producers in the UK and European markets.
The India-UK trade pact marks a strategic milestone in bilateral economic relations and is poised to usher in a new era of growth, innovation, and global integration for India’s mining and mineral industries.
