Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has presented a strong argument for relaxing visa norms for companies and skilled professionals to increase bilateral trade and investment between India and the UK. His comments came as India and the UK resumed talks on the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds arriving in India to deepen economic cooperation.

India is pushing for liberalized visa policies, particularly for Indian professionals employed by Indian businesses investing in the UK. Indian businesses are the second-largest overseas investors in the UK, adding strength to India's plea for freer mobility of talent. Goyal pointed out that liberalizing services sectors under the FTA would bring new opportunities, requiring quicker and freer issue of visas.

"We have also, in the context of FTA, offered to open up each other's services sector while taking care of the sensitivities that a country has so that can give new opportunities. Clearly, for all this business visas will have to be arranged, and those will be connected with investments and services that would be opened," Goyal added.

He emphasized the call for a harmonious approach, stating, "If we both want to increase our trade and investments, clearly we need to be quicker and more liberal in giving visas."

The negotiations involve three parallel phases: the FTA, a Bilateral Investment Treaty, and a Double Contribution Convention Agreement. Goyal was upbeat about developments in all areas, citing the reciprocal gains of increased economic cooperation.

Reynolds reaffirmed the commitment of the UK to a fair and reciprocal agreement. "We've restarted negotiations for the UK-India FTA. Through these negotiations, we wish to achieve a fair and reciprocal agreement," he added.
The FTA has 26 chapters covering goods, services, investments, and intellectual property rights. The UK is looking to reduce tariffs on goods such as electric cars and Scotch whisky, while India is seeking easier visa access for its services sector professionals.

In a symbolic act of cultural bonding, Goyal and Reynolds toured the National Crafts Museum, discovering India's vibrant craft heritage. Goyal subsequently posted their experience on social media, underscoring the nation's rich heritage.
The revival of FTA talks and the emphasis on visa reforms are a reflection of the renewed interest in deepening India-UK relations, with both countries keen to unlock new trade and investment opportunities. As talks move forward, the possibility of a balanced, forward-looking agreement appears nearer than ever before, with the promise of growth and cooperation for businesses on both sides.