The Prime Minister met with the Indian PM to finalise the deal, which is expected to create over 2,200 jobs and support nearly £6 billion in investment and export wins across the UK.
Northern Ireland’s advanced manufacturing, engineering, and medtech sectors—key local employers—will benefit from reduced tariffs, including the removal or halving of duties on medical devices.
The region’s Irish whiskey producers will see duties slashed from 150% to 75% immediately, falling to 40% over the next decade.
India, a growing market for NI goods, imported £65 million worth from 143 local businesses last year. That figure is expected to rise with fewer trade barriers and streamlined customs.
The deal is forecast to contribute to a UK-wide wage uplift of £2.2 billion annually, bringing higher pay, cheaper imports, and wider consumer choice. Northern Ireland businesses importing materials for sectors like luxury goods and manufacturing could also see significant savings.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn, called the agreement “a landmark deal” that will unlock growth potential across Northern Ireland’s economy.
Find the full press release on Gov.uk
Photo by energepic.com
