UK Deputy High Commissioner Champions Mangaluru as Key Hub in UK-India CETA Framework
During a significant business networking reception in Mangaluru on Thursday, British Deputy High Commissioner for Karnataka and Kerala, Chandru Iyer, who also serves as Deputy Trade Commissioner for South Asia (Investment), articulated a compelling vision for the coastal city. He positioned Mangaluru as a promising trade and education hub under the forthcoming UK-India Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA), signaling new opportunities for both regions.
Expanding Trade and Academic Ties with Coastal Karnataka
Iyer emphasized the United Kingdom's strong interest in broadening trade and academic connections with coastal Karnataka. He expressed firm support for Karnataka's 'Beyond Bengaluru' initiative, which has motivated the British government to actively explore partnerships in this region. "Why can't the 'Mangaluru Buns' be sold in the UK? Why shouldn't the outlets of Ideal, Hangyo, or Naturals be opened in London?" he questioned, highlighting the potential for local brands to gain international exposure.
Implementation of the UK-India CETA and Key Cooperation Areas
The UK-India Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA), signed in July last year during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to London, is now poised for implementation. Iyer described the agreement as "really comprehensive for both regions in all aspects," noting that it aims to deepen cooperation in six critical sectors:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Semiconductors
- Critical Minerals
- Quantum Physics
- Future Telecom
- Biotechnology
Once ratified, the CETA is expected to reduce or eliminate duties on approximately 99% of products traded between the two nations. Iyer revealed that even before its implementation, bilateral trade has shown robust growth, increasing from USD 44 billion to USD 47 billion, reflecting strong momentum.
Vision 2035 and Regional Strengths
Iyer added that the prime ministers of both countries have agreed on Vision 2035, a strategic framework designed to elevate bilateral ties across multiple domains, including trade and investment, defence and security, healthcare, climate action, and education. He pointed out that the coastal belt's inherent strengths in fisheries, cashew, and arecanut production, combined with its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, position it favorably for enhanced engagement with the UK. "It was wonderful to see three ice cream brands from the city come together to explore business opportunities in London," he remarked, underscoring the collaborative spirit.
Educational Partnerships Under India's New National Education Policy
On the education front, Iyer noted that many UK universities are actively exploring partnerships in light of India's new National Education Policy, which permits foreign universities to establish campuses in the country. "Our discussions today were about, 'Can we get more British schools to Mangaluru and get more British universities to explore the possibilities of opening campuses here?' Lots of opportunities and a lot of work to be done. That is why my team and I are here," he explained, highlighting the proactive efforts to foster academic collaborations.
This visit underscores a concerted push to leverage the CETA framework for mutual benefit, with Mangaluru emerging as a focal point for trade expansion and educational innovation between the UK and India.
