Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has commenced a significant trade mission to India, emphasizing the strengthened economic ties between the two nations. The visit, which began on October 8, 2025, is Starmer's first official trip to India as Prime Minister. He is accompanied by a delegation of 125 prominent figures, including chief executives, university leaders, and representatives from British cultural institutions.
The core objective of this mission is to leverage the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed between the UK and India in July as a "launchpad for growth". Starmer aims to promote the vast business opportunities that the agreement unlocks for British companies. The UK-India trade deal has already reduced tariffs on British businesses from 15% to an average of 3%.
Prior to his departure, Starmer highlighted India's projected rise to become the world's third-largest economy by 2028, stressing the unparalleled opportunities for trade. He underscored that the trade deal is not merely a formal document but a catalyst for substantial growth.
Key figures from major British corporations, such as Rolls-Royce, British Telecom, Diageo, the London Stock Exchange, and British Airways, are part of the delegation, demonstrating the broad interest in strengthening trade relations. Starmer stated that growth in India for these companies translates to increased choices, opportunities, and jobs for the British people.
During the visit, Starmer is scheduled to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss issues of regional and global importance. Both leaders are also slated to attend the sixth edition of the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai on October 9, where they will deliver keynote addresses. They will also engage with industry experts, policymakers and innovators. Their discussions will encompass various aspects of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, aligned with the "Vision 2035," a 10-year roadmap focusing on trade, investment, technology, defense, climate, health, education, and people-to-people connections.
On October 9, Modi and Starmer will participate in the CEO Forum at the Jio World Center. The two leaders are expected to review the progress made across various areas of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in diverse aspects of the 'Vision 2035'.
The visit occurs against the backdrop of significant changes to the UK's visa and settlement rules, announced on September 30, following the 2025 immigration white paper. Furthermore, discussions are expected regarding global issues such as the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Both leaders have expressed support for the Gaza peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
In addition to trade discussions, Modi will inaugurate key infrastructure projects, including Phase 1 of the Navi Mumbai International Airport and the Mumbai Metro Line-3. He will also launch the Short-Term Employability Program (STEP), introducing new training batches across Maharashtra, including courses for women and emerging technologies like AI, IoT, Electric Vehicles, Solar, and Additive Manufacturing.
