Mumbai: In a key meeting during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to India, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal called on the UK leader in Mumbai to map out next steps for deepening bilateral trade and economic cooperation. With both sides expressing urgency on activating the recently signed India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the talks signalled renewed momentum in the partnership.
Goyal later posted on X that he was “delighted to call on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer” and that they had “discussed avenues to further deepen India-UK trade and economic partnership for mutual prosperity.” He also noted that he had earlier met Peter Kyle, the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to align on execution of trade and investment priorities. (turn0search1)
A key outcome from the meeting was the agreement to reposition the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) as the central mechanism to monitor and drive the implementation of CETA. Officials said the decision would help streamline delivery, address regulatory hurdles, and ensure accountability in both capitals. (turn0search0)
During the discussion, both ministers underscored their shared ambition to double bilateral trade by 2030. They committed to tackling non-tariff barriers fostering supply chain integration and unlocking sectoral gains in advanced manufacturing, digital trade, clean energy and services. The path forward, they stressed, must be results-oriented and responsive to evolving global dynamics.
Observers viewed Goyal’s meeting with Starmer as more than symbolic. It is a strong signal that India expects early and concrete progress on the promises of CETA rather than prolonged delay. With economic pressures mounting both sides appear to be treating this agreement as a litmus test for strategic trust and execution credibility.
However, challenges lie ahead. Harmonising regulations, reconciling differing standards and ensuring that gains flow down to small and medium enterprises will demand sustained political will. Moreover with visa policy explicitly excluded from the current deal, stakeholders note that mobility constraints could limit full potential in services and talent exchange.
In the broader diplomacy theatre, the Goyal–Starmer meeting complements the Modi–Starmer summit and cultural deals such as Yash Raj Films’ decision to shoot in the UK. Together they reflect an India-UK partnership that seeks to integrate commerce, culture, and strategic goals. Whether the renewed momentum holds through implementation remains a test for both sides.
