India-UK CETA opens duty-free runway for apparel exporters from July 15

AEPC flags a step-change opportunity as the India-UK trade pact takes effect July 15, granting duty-free access to a UK apparel import market worth USD 19.84 billion. Indian shipments, currently at USD 1.4 billion, gain pricing parity with rivals — a tailwind for capacity, investment and jobs across the export base.

— Source publishedThu, 18 Jun, 2026, 20:20 IST·First seen Thu, 18 Jun, 2026, 20:36 IST·Source ET Small Business

What happened

India-UK CETA, effective July 15, will give Indian apparel exporters duty-free access to the UK market. AEPC sees major upside versus current USD 1.4B exports

Key facts

  • USD 1.4 billion
  • USD 19.84 billion
  • July 15

Why this matters

Window opens for bolt-on acquisitions of UK distribution, design houses, or private-label platforms to convert tariff advantage into shelf space before Bangladesh and Vietnam negotiate counter-deals.