Gateway Distriparks Limited (GDL) marked a significant milestone in India’s export landscape by facilitating the first export consignment from the Ludhiana region under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) at its Inland Container Depot (ICD) Sahnewal.
The ceremonial flag-off celebrated the movement of the first export shipment from the region following the implementation of the India-UK CETA, which came into effect on July 15, 2026. The landmark agreement is expected to significantly strengthen bilateral trade by eliminating tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the United Kingdom while reducing duties on 90% of UK imports into India. The agreement aims to boost bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030.
The historic shipment, comprising automotive parts exported by Somik Enterprises, was recognised as the first consignment from the Ludhiana market under the new trade agreement. The cargo was flagged off by senior officials from the Indian Customs Department and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in the presence of government dignitaries, industry representatives, and the GDL Sahnewal team.
The successful movement underscores the growing export potential of the Ludhiana manufacturing cluster and highlights the vital role of efficient inland logistics infrastructure in supporting India’s expanding global trade network.
Gateway Distriparks stated that the milestone reflects its commitment to providing seamless logistics solutions that enable exporters to leverage opportunities arising from progressive trade agreements. The company also acknowledged the support of government authorities and industry stakeholders whose coordinated efforts made the historic shipment possible.
With the India-UK CETA opening new avenues for Indian exporters, Gateway Distriparks reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening India’s logistics ecosystem and facilitating faster, more efficient international trade through its nationwide network of inland container depots and rail logistics services.