Amritsar Airport Marks Milestone with First Cargo Movement Under India-UK FTA

The first cargo shipment to the United Kingdom under the newly implemented India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was officially dispatched from the cargo terminal of Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, marking a significant milestone in bilateral trade. The ceremonial flag-off was attended by officials from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), representatives from the airport's cargo division, and members of the exporting community. During the event, officials demonstrated the complete cargo handling process, including packaging, security screening, and the movement of cargo containers to the aircraft before the inaugural consignment departed for the UK.

Speaking on the occasion, DGFT Deputy Director Aditya Singh Chauhan said that the India-UK FTA provides duty-free access for nearly 99 percent of Indian goods entering the British market. He noted that ready-made garments previously faced import duties of 12 to 20 percent, which affected their competitiveness. With these tariffs now eliminated, Indian exporters are expected to enjoy stronger market access and improved business prospects.

Azad Singh, who oversees operations at Amritsar Cargo, said the first shipment under the agreement mainly comprises ready-made garments destined for the UK. He pointed out that while exports from Amritsar to Britain were already taking place, the removal of customs duties is likely to encourage a larger number of businesses to explore overseas markets.

He also highlighted that the Amritsar cargo terminal regularly handles exports such as ready-made apparel, sports goods, engineering products, and fresh agricultural produce, including Alphonso and Kesar mangoes, baby corn, green chillies, and a variety of vegetables. According to officials, the India-UK FTA is expected to create fresh opportunities for exporters from Punjab, boost outbound shipments, and further strengthen trade and economic ties between the two countries.