TPCI Signs Landmark MoU with UKIBC and Hosts High-Impact India–UK Food & Beverage Trade Event in London

Trade Promotion Council of India

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TPCI Signs Landmark MoU with UKIBC and Hosts High-Impact India–UK Food & Beverage Trade Event in London

LONDON / NEW DELHI — October 21, 2026 — Following the landmark entry into force of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) on July 15, 2026, the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) has deepened bilateral commercial ties through two major initiatives in London: signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK-India Business Council (UKIBC) and hosting the India–UK Trade Promotion Event on Food & Beverages on October 15, 2026.

The strategic MoU between the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) and the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) establishes a dedicated framework for institutional business collaboration. The partnership focuses on connecting businesses, facilitating trade missions, sharing market intelligence, and creating growth opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across both nations.

In tandem with the MoU signing, TPCI also organised a major B2B matchmaking showcase in London featuring 48 prominent Indian exporting companies and 150 UK-based importers. The food and beverage sector represents a significant growth corridor under the new trade framework. The UK currently imports $50.68 billion worth of processed food annually, with India’s share standing at 0.6% ($309.5 million), presenting significant room for expansion. Under CETA, UK tariffs of up to 70% on processed foods, 4.2–8.5% on shrimp, and duties on instant coffee have also been eliminated, providing immediate competitive parity for Indian producers.

Speaking on the TPCI–UKIBC MoU signing, Shri Mohit Singla, Chairman, TPCI, said, “This MoU is a major milestone in taking India–UK trade engagement from policy to partnership. Following the entry into force of the India–UK CETA, both TPCI and UKIBC will be deeply engaged in bilateral trade development, ensuring that the post-FTA momentum translates into tangible outcomes. There is tremendous excitement across industry and government, and together, we are committed to achieving ambitious commercial goals and unlocking unprecedented opportunities for SMEs.”

Chairman TPCI also had meetings with the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST), United Kingdom, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry – LCCI and Scotch Whisky Association. Shri Singla discussed business support while boosting international trade to drive economic growth. He informed that the UK industry is very optimistic post-FTA to strengthen business ties, including investment.

On the India–UK Food & Beverage Trade Event:

Further, the Trade Promotion Council of India also organised the India–UK Trade Promotion Event on Food & Beverages in London on 15 October 2026, bringing together 48 Indian exporting companies and 150 UK-based importers.

The flagship trade event was inaugurated by Shri Rakesh Dahiya, First Secretary (Trade, Tourism and OCI), High Commission of India; Shri Mohit Singla, Chairman, TPCI; and Mr. Stephen Crisp, Director, UKIBC. Practical knowledge sessions led by global industry leaders, including DP World, State Bank of India UK, and Deloitte, provided strategic insights into navigating supply chains, market access, and financial structuring under the implementation phase of the CETA.

Bilateral trade between India and the UK reached £48 billion ($65 billion) in FY2025–26. With CETA removing tariffs on approximately 99% of Indian tariff lines entering the UK, Indian food exporters are poised to scale exports, expand beyond the 1.86 million Indian diaspora market, and establish durable supply chains across UK retail and food service sectors.

Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Mohit Singla, Chairman TPCI said, “With 99% of Indian tariff lines now entering the UK duty-free—and peak tariffs of up to 70% on processed foods eliminated under CETA—the landscape for Indian food exporters has transformed dramatically. The overwhelming response at our London show, bringing together 48 leading Indian exporters and 150 UK importers, demonstrates the immense commercial appetite. Our goal is not merely to increase shipment volumes, but to build enduring brands, trusted supply chains, and long-term buyer relationships in one of the world’s most discerning consumer markets.”

About Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI)

The Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) is an apex trade and investment promotion organisation recognised by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. TPCI facilitates international trade, organises global trade fairs and B2B delegations, and works to enhance the footprint of Indian industries in key international markets.