'A win for India': Piyush Goyal on clinching UK free trade deal
He also addressed concerns regarding government procurement and the alcohol sector. The deal ensures protection for India's MSME sector, allowing UK companies to be considered Class 2 suppliers while Indian businesses gain broader access to UK public procurement. The agreement also tackles the long-standing issue of alcohol imports, particularly Scotch whisky, highlighting its role in creating bottling and blending jobs in India. A key outcome is India securing over 99% preferential, often zero-duty, access to the UK market. Furthermore, the deal includes a significant social security provision for Indian professionals working in the UK. This allows their social security contributions, previously lost, to be deposited in Indian Provident Fund accounts, potentially saving 8,000 to 10,000 crore rupees
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