Selling to India? Lower tariffs are live, but they are not automatic
The UK–India trade agreement came into force on 15 July 2026. A preferential rate depends on the product’s tariff classification, qualifying origin and the required evidence.
By Scott GillettPublished 25 Jul 2026Last reviewed 16 Aug 2026Destination: IndiaEffective: 15 July 2026
AT A GLANCEIn force now
- Who this affects
- UK exporters seeking a preferential tariff under the UK–India trade agreement.
- What you should do
- Confirm the Indian tariff classification, product-specific origin rule and supporting origin evidence before claiming preference.
- Current status
- 15 July 2026
- Last checked
- 16 Aug 2026
- Official source
- Open the primary source ↗
The practical point
The UK–India trade agreement came into force on 15 July 2026, but a lower tariff is not automatic. The outcome depends on the product’s Indian tariff classification, the relevant tariff schedule and whether the goods meet the product-specific rule of origin.
What UK sellers should check
- Confirm the Indian tariff classification and the preferential rate available for that product.
- Check the product-specific origin rule. Dispatch from the UK, packaging, labelling or simple assembly does not by itself establish UK origin.
- Gather the supplier and production evidence needed to support the origin claim.
- Follow the current UK registration and prescribed origin-declaration process.
- Coordinate with the Indian importer so the claim and shipment records are complete.