UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday, leading the largest-ever UK trade mission to India comprising 125 CEOs and entrepreneurs. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral economic ties and build on the momentum of the UK-India trade deal signed in July 2025.
Focus on fast-tracking UK-India trade deal implementation
Calling the pact “the best trade agreement secured by any country,” Starmer said it would make trade with India “quicker and cheaper,” creating “unparalleled opportunities” for businesses on both sides.
“With India set to be the third-largest economy by 2028, the opportunities waiting to be seized are immense,” Starmer said in a statement released by the British High Commission. He added that both nations should move to implement the trade deal as quickly as humanly possible.
Bollywood visit and cultural collaboration
On his first day in Mumbai, Starmer visited the studios of Yash Raj Films (YRF), one of India’s leading film production houses, and met actor Rani Mukerji. He announced that YRF would launch three major productions in the UK next year, marking a fresh chapter in UK-India cultural and entertainment ties.
Major UK firms part of delegation
According to UK authorities, several top British companies, including Rolls Royce, British Airways, and the London Stock Exchange, are part of the delegation. Starmer said his government is committed to creating “conditions for British businesses to grow and thrive in the Indian market.”
Meeting with PM Modi on Thursday
Starmer is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Thursday. The two leaders are expected to review progress on the India-UK strategic partnership under the ‘Vision 2035’ roadmap — a decade-long plan launched during Modi’s visit to London earlier this year.
Modi is also expected to raise India’s concerns about growing Khalistan extremism in the UK and seek London’s support in the extradition of economic fugitives, including Nirav Modi.