Lord Swraj Paul's wife Aruna passes away

• India has notified customs rules for the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, clearing the way for its implementation on July 15.
• The agreement will eliminate or reduce tariffs on most goods traded between the two countries, benefiting exporters and businesses.
• The deal is expected to increase annual bilateral trade by £25.5 billion in the long term.

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has taken another step towards implementation after India notified the customs rules that will determine whether goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment under the landmark deal. The new rules, issued by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, will come into force on July 15, the same day the trade agreement becomes operational.

The notification outlines how the country of origin of goods will be determined under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), a key requirement for exporters seeking lower or zero customs duties. Only products that meet the agreed origin criteria will be eligible for the tariff concessions offered under the agreement.