British small businesses are stepping up efforts to enter the Indian market ahead of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) coming into force on July 15, with dozens of entrepreneurs already pitching directly to Indian buyers in search of new export opportunities.
More than 40 businesses from the food and beverage, retail, and consumer goods sectors took part in Great British Pitch India, an initiative led by Small Business Britain and supported by the Department for Business and Trade. The programme connected UK entrepreneurs with Indian buyers at a time when businesses on both sides are preparing for what is expected to be a significant expansion in bilateral trade.
The event followed confirmation that the long-awaited UK-India Free Trade Agreement will officially take effect next month. The deal is expected to reduce trade barriers, improve market access and create new opportunities for businesses seeking to expand into one of the world's fastest-growing economies.
Several participating businesses reported immediate buyer interest following their presentations, with early discussions already underway around potential export partnerships. Organisers said the event was designed not only to introduce British brands to Indian buyers but also to help smaller companies navigate the practical challenges of international expansion.
Before pitching, participants received export-readiness support through mentoring sessions, workshops and one-to-one guidance covering legal, regulatory and cultural considerations involved in doing business in India.
The initiative reflects growing interest among UK small businesses in international markets. While government data shows only 17 per cent of UK SMEs currently export, research from the Small Business Institute suggests ambitions are rising, with 30 per cent planning to increase exports in the future. Despite India being one of the world's largest consumer markets, only a small proportion of British exporters currently trade there.
Trade Minister Chris Bryant said the timing of the event aligned closely with a major opportunity for British businesses.
"The Great British Pitch is a perfect example of the ambition and talent that exists across the UK's small business community, and it couldn't be better timed," he said.
"With our landmark trade deal with India entering into force on 15 July, British businesses will now have the opportunity to access one of the world's fastest-growing markets."
According to the UK government, the agreement is expected to increase UK GDP by £4.8 billion and deliver tariff reductions worth £400 million in its first year.
For Small Business Britain, the event highlighted the role smaller companies can play in strengthening trade ties between the two countries. Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder and CEO of Small Business Britain, said exporting provides businesses with both commercial and long-term growth opportunities.
“Great British Pitch India is a clear demonstration of what happens when we work together, fuelled by the ambition and drive of the UK’s small businesses,” she said.
The programme concluded with a reception at No. 11 Downing Street hosted by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, attended by Indian High Commissioner Kumaran Periasamy and HM Trade Commissioner Harjinder Kang. Discussions focused on the growing importance of UK-India trade and the contribution of small businesses to future economic growth.
As the July implementation date approaches, business groups expect interest in India among British SMEs to accelerate, particularly in consumer-focused sectors where demand for international brands continues to grow. For many of the entrepreneurs who participated in Great British Pitch India, the event offered an early opportunity to establish relationships that could become the foundation for future trade between the two countries.
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