New Delhi: India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, has emphasized the need for a more flexible visa regime to enhance trade and investment between India and the United Kingdom. Speaking at a joint press conference with Jonathan Reynolds, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Goyal underscored that smoother mobility for professionals and businesses would significantly strengthen economic relations between the two nations.
Goyal clarified that visa relaxations for skilled professionals are crucial for fostering trade, but he reiterated that immigration policies have never been part of India’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Dismissing concerns about linking immigration policies with trade discussions, he stated, “India has never included immigration in any FTA discussions.”
The ongoing FTA talks between India and the UK aim to increase market access, promote services, and attract more investments. Both ministers expressed optimism that a well-structured trade pact would provide mutual benefits and accelerate economic cooperation.
The India-UK trade partnership has been growing steadily, and easing business travel restrictions could play a vital role in further enhancing trade volumes, service sector collaboration, and cross-border investments.
With both countries keen on finalizing a comprehensive FTA, expectations are high that the agreement will drive economic growth and create new opportunities for businesses in both nations.
