"The 'Living Bridge': Fostering a new golden age in the U.K. and India's diplomatic partnership"
The India Business Group (IBG), established in 2014 by Amarjit Singh, has been instrumental in fostering the special relationship between India and the UK. Initially set up to support and guide new market entrants, the IBG has since expanded its role to promote greater bilateral trade and business growth.
In 2017, the IBG introduced the India Awards, an annual event that recognises bilateral activities, impact, innovation, and partnerships between the two countries. This year, the India Awards will be held on Monday, 22 September 2025, at the Houses of Parliament.
The upcoming UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), anticipated to come into force next summer, is set to further strengthen these ties. The comprehensive FTA, covering a vast range of opportunities in trade in goods and services across both jurisdictions, is described as a 'new chapter and a game-changer for UK-India relations'.
The main countries involved in the planned FTA are the United Kingdom and India. The agreement will come into effect once it is ratified by the British Parliament. Upon implementation, whisky and gin tariffs are set to be halved from 150% to 75%, and further reduced to 40% by year 10. This reduction in tariffs is significant for UK distilleries aiming to tap into India's vast consumer market of 1.5bn people.
The exponential growth of India's Global Capability Centres (GCCs) underscores this transformation, driven by India's tech-savvy workforce and demographic dividend. India is no longer just a back-office hub; it's increasingly seen as a destination for design and innovation.
The IBG provides advisory support, facilitates trade roadshows, business conferences, and roundtables to raise awareness of opportunities in both markets. UK SMEs, particularly those in Hampshire, have faced significant hurdles in engaging with the Indian market, including understanding opportunities and navigating the corporate landscape. The IBG's focus on cultivating relationships and facilitating global partnerships sets it apart.
Indian businesses have shown unwavering confidence in investing in the UK, with India retaining its position as the second-largest investor. This is evident in Apple's decision to shift portions of its design and manufacturing operations into India, including chip design and iPhone assembly.
Amarjit Singh, the founder of the IBG, is a commercial solicitor by background. His journey began in 2013 when he received a call from Downing Street, and was selected as one of two UK lawyers to accompany then-Prime Minister David Cameron on a major trade mission to India.
The UK-India FTA is expected to bring about a significant shift in the economic landscape of both countries. As we approach the ratification of the agreement, the India Business Group continues to play a crucial role in facilitating and promoting bilateral trade and business growth.
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