India's Trade Relation with United Kingdom: Historical Evolution, Present Dynamics & Future Prospects

The trade relationship between India and the United Kingdom is one of its major historical, political and economic links, and is an integral part of the political arrangement. Bilateral trade between the two nations has transformed from one of colonial subordination to a relationship based on joint development, technological sharing and economic coordination for long-term sustainability through decades. This report aims to critically analyse trade relations between India and the UK, and to document policy, trade pacts and institution framings that have moulded the economic interface. It appraises post-Brexit opportunities and challenges, in particular discussions about the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, and considers the effects on services, pharmaceuticals, IT and manufacturing. Based on trade statistics, WTO reports, and academic observations (Maddison, Dutt, Bhagwati, Kumar, WTO Trade Policy Review 2021), the paper provides an analytical review of trade asymmetry, tariff measures and investments. It also evaluates the impact of global economic disruptions — like the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical shifts — on the adjustment of bilateral priorities. This research also suggests that a trade-sharing and balanced trading relationship developed between India and the UK would facilitate a sustainable economic growth, job construction and global value chain integration for India and the UK.