FIFI Roundtable Advances UK-India Agri-Food Trade Discussions
The Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI), in collaboration with the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) and the UK Government (UKG), participated in a high-level interactive roundtable at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The session focused on strengthening UK-India food and drink trade. It also explored commercial opportunities and regulatory compliance under the UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
Industry Leaders Discuss Trade Opportunities
The session was attended by Chief Guests The Rt Hon Mr Douglas Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, and The Rt Hon Dame Angela Eagle MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
Mr. Amit Lohani, Founder Director of FIFI, delivered the keynote context-setting address. He presented the Indian food and beverage industry’s views on market opportunities, regulatory alignment and trade facilitation under CETA.
Mr. Lohani also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between government bodies, trade platforms and industry stakeholders. Such cooperation can help ease market entry and expand distribution corridors across India.
UK and Global Brands Join the Discussion
The roundtable brought together senior leaders and corporate executives from major UK and global brands. Participants included Diageo, Pernod Ricard, Annandale Distillery and Walkers Shortbread.
Prominent sector trade associations also took part in the discussion. These included the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), Salmon Scotland and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), alongside FIFI.
Focus on Regulatory and Trade Challenges
The business-led discussion focused on practical ways to address regulatory bottlenecks. Delegates also discussed food safety compliance and opportunities to increase bilateral trade.
The conversation covered several food and beverage categories. These included spirits, seafood, meat, dairy and processed foods.
The session also explored ways to make market access more efficient. In addition, participants discussed the importance of stronger trade support and market intelligence.
Commitment to Deeper Commercial Ties
The session concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen UK-India commercial relations. Delegates also agreed on the importance of using CETA’s preferential framework to support trade growth.
Furthermore, the participants discussed creating structured channels for continued trade support and market intelligence sharing.
The roundtable marked another step towards building stronger links between the UK and Indian food and beverage sectors. It also highlighted the role of industry collaboration in supporting smoother market access and long-term bilateral trade growth.
