UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai on his first official visit to India. This meeting marks a key moment in the expanding UK India trade relationship. It follows the landmark deal signed in July.
Starmer arrived in India with a large delegation of more than 100 business leaders, entrepreneurs, and university heads. The visit aims to enhance cooperation across technology, education, and cultural industries. Both sides expressed optimism about new opportunities under the evolving trade partnership.
Prime Minister Modi described the visit as “historic,” highlighting the growing importance of collaboration between the two nations. Streets in Mumbai were lined with posters of both leaders as they prepared to attend joint events.
Later on Thursday, Starmer will deliver a keynote speech at a major financial technology conference. His agenda focuses on building digital and innovation links, especially in emerging sectors like fintech and clean energy.
During his first day, Starmer met Nandan Nilekani, the founder of India’s digital ID system. They discussed the UK’s plan for a similar initiative. Despite public concern over the policy, Downing Street insists that digital IDs will help reduce illegal employment.
The visit also brought cultural news. Starmer announced that Yash Raj Films will produce three Bollywood movies in the UK from 2026. This partnership ends an eight-year break in major Indian film production in Britain. It is expected to boost the creative sector.
The UK India trade deal signed earlier this year aims to cut tariffs and open new markets. India’s average tariff on UK goods will drop from 15% to 3%. Meanwhile, the UK will reduce taxes on Indian exports such as clothing, jewellery, and seafood. In turn, India will lower duties on whisky, cosmetics, and luxury vehicles.
Officials project that the agreement could add £4.8 billion to the UK’s GDP annually. It could also increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion by 2040.
Before his arrival, Starmer emphasized that the UK would not relax visa rules for Indian nationals. However, he said the trade partnership represents “massive opportunities” for both economies.
The visit also takes place as India faces rising trade tensions with the United States. These tensions are due to new tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump. Against that backdrop, the UK India trade relationship may emerge as a more stable and mutually beneficial alliance.
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