Maharashtra and UK sign growth partnership to boost trade

The United Kingdom and the Indian state of Maharashtra have signed a growth partnership to bolster trade, investment, and job creation. This initiative follows the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in July 2026, which aims to increase annual bilateral trade by approximately £25 billion over the long term.

A high-level UK delegation, including three Cabinet ministers and seven mayors, is visiting India to secure commercial deals estimated to exceed £1 billion. Discussions are focused on sectors such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, financial services, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital technology. Regional UK entities, including Greater Manchester and the North East of England, are also seeking specific ties in green industries and clean energy.

In Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis invited UK businesses to utilize the ‘Invest Maharashtra’ platform to access the state’s industrial infrastructure and skilled workforce. The partnership includes cooperation in education, with discussions involving institutions such as the University of Bristol, the University of York, and the University of Aberdeen. Proposed projects like EduCity, Medicity, and AI Innovation City are intended to integrate research facilities with professional training. Additionally, the state is seeking UK investment in clean energy, water management, and transportation.