Kerala achieved a significant milestone in international trade with the ceremonial flag-off of the state’s first export consignment to the United Kingdom under the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), marking a new chapter in strengthening bilateral trade relations and expanding export opportunities for Indian businesses.
The flag-off ceremony was led by Dr. T. Tiju, IRS, Commissioner of Customs & Preventive, Cochin, in the presence of Mr. Hassan Usaid, ITS, Deputy Director General of Foreign Trade (RA), Kochi; Ms. Dhanya K.N., Authorised Officer and Head, FSSAI Kochi; Mr. Rajeev M.C., Assistant Director and Head, FIEO Kerala, along with senior officials from APEDA, the Department of Immigration, and Customs.
Jointly organised by the DGFT Regional Authority, Kochi, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the event underscored the coordinated efforts of key government agencies to facilitate seamless exports and help Indian exporters leverage the benefits of the India–UK CETA.
The landmark shipment is expected to pave the way for increased exports from Kerala to the UK by providing exporters with enhanced market access, reduced trade barriers, and improved competitiveness under the newly implemented trade agreement.
The India–UK CETA offers preferential market access across a wide range of products, creating fresh opportunities for sectors such as agriculture, food processing, seafood, spices, engineering goods, textiles, and other value-added products from Kerala.
Officials noted that the successful dispatch of the first consignment reflects the growing confidence of Indian exporters in the agreement and reinforces India’s commitment to expanding global trade through strategic partnerships.
The event marks another important step in strengthening India–UK economic ties while positioning Kerala as an emerging hub for export-led growth and international trade.