Goa stands to benefit from India-UK free trade agreement: GCCI

Panaji: The India-UK free trade agreement (FTA) will significantly benefit Goa’s pharmaceutical companies, tourism sector, and feni producers, said the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Saturday. GCCI president Pratima Dhond said that the recent signing of the trade agreement between the two nations could provide a much-needed boost to Goa’s economy.

The FTA provides zero-duty access to the UK market for nearly 99% of Indian exports, including pharmaceuticals. While the UK imports nearly $30 billion worth of medicines and medical devices, India’s pharma exports to the UK currently stand at under $1 billion. The bilateral agreement is anticipated to unlock major export opportunities for the sector. Goa is ranked sixth in pharmaceutical exports, with an overall share of 5.6%.

“This landmark agreement is expected to significantly enhance trade and investment opportunities between India and the UK, with far-reaching benefits for the state,” she said.

The FTA could lead to increased travel and tourism opportunities between India and the UK, and this will benefit Goa’s tourism industry. Dhond said that Goa’s feni industry will gain recognition in the British market with geographical indication protection, opening up new export opportunities. “This will be a major boost for govt, which is promoting exports of Indian alcoholic beverages to global markets,” she said.

Meanwhile, duty-free exports of marine products to the UK, textile businesses, and IT services also stand to benefit from the trade agreement, boosting the state’s economy over the long term, said GCCI. The UK imports around $5.4 billion worth of marine products such as prawns, tuna, mackerel, sardines, squid, crab, and pomfret. India’s current share in the UK’s marine imports is just 2.3%, but this share is projected to double after the FTA. All coastal states stand to benefit from export-led job creation.

“Indian professionals, including those from Goa, will have easier access to the UK market, with relaxed visa procedures and exemptions from UK social security contributions,” said Dhond.