Amritsar: Amritsar has marked a historic milestone in international trade as the first cargo shipment destined for the United Kingdom under the newly implemented India-UK Free Trade Agreement was officially flagged off from the cargo terminal at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport. The landmark flag-off ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including officials from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, cargo department executives, and prominent regional exporters. The event showcased the complete end-to-end cargo handling operations, demonstrating the efficient packing, scanning, and secure transportation of the containers directly to the aircraft before its departure for British soil.
The trade pact is expected to provide an unprecedented boost to local industries, with trade officials confirming that nearly 99 per cent of Indian products will now enjoy zero-duty access to the UK market. Previously, ready-made garments were subjected to steep import duties ranging between 12 per cent and 20 per cent, which heavily impacted the competitiveness of Indian goods. The elimination of these tariffs gives Indian exporters a decisive edge, paving the way for a major surge in export volumes and enhanced commercial growth.
Signifying the immediate impact of the treaty, the inaugural shipment dispatched from the Amritsar hub consisted entirely of ready-made garments. While trade routes between Amritsar and the United Kingdom have been active for years, custom authorities noted that the introduction of a zero-tariff regime will serve as a powerful catalyst, encouraging a new wave of domestic exporters to scale their businesses globally.
The cargo facility in Amritsar serves as a major logistical artery for the region, primarily handling the transit of ready-made garments, sports goods, engineering components, and high-demand perishable agricultural produce. Local businesses frequently utilize the hub to export premium commodities such as Alphonso and Kesar mangoes, baby corn, green chillies, and various seasonal vegetables. Industry experts and officials are highly optimistic that this streamlined trade framework will unlock vast economic opportunities for entrepreneurs across Punjab while significantly strengthening the broader bilateral trade relationship between India and the United Kingdom.
