By: Shiferaw Lakew
India has officially concluded a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom, according to an announcement made by the Embassy of India.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Anil Kumar Rai, confirmed that the agreement was finalized on May 6, 2025, after extensive negotiations. The agreement aims to foster deep economic integration through trade liberalization and tariff concessions between the two countries.
“This FTA marks a significant step forward in strengthening economic ties and reflects our commitment to global trade partnerships,” the ambassador stated.
He also highlighted the relevance of such agreements to Ethiopia, which is currently pursuing accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). “For a country like Ethiopia, which is actively engaging in global trade discussions, the Indian experience can offer valuable insights,” he added.
The FTA is expected to further enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UK while promoting trade, investment, economic growth, job creation, and innovation.
During the briefing, the ambassador also referenced the International Monetary Fund’s April 2025 World Economic Outlook, stating that the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook (April 2025) projects that India will become the world’s fourth-largest economy, surpassing Japan.
In his closing remarks, the ambassador has emphasized the longstanding friendship between Ethiopia and India, describing it as a bond that dates back to ancient times. He also reiterated India’s continued support for Ethiopia’s development aspirations, noting that this robust partnership will keep expanding across a wide range of sectors.