Amritsar (Punjab) [India], July 15 (ANI): Following the implementation of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the first cargo shipment to the United Kingdom was flagged off from the cargo terminal at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by officials from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), cargo department officials, and exporters.

During the event, the complete cargo handling process, including packing, scanning, and transportation of cargo containers to the aircraft, was showcased. The first shipment was then ceremonially flagged off for the UK.

Speaking to ANI on the occasion, Aditya Singh Chauhan, Deputy Director of DGFT, said, 'Under the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, nearly 99 per cent of Indian products will now enjoy zero-duty access to the UK market.'

He stated that earlier, ready-made garments attracted import duties ranging from 12 per cent to 20 per cent, making Indian products less competitive. With the removal of these duties, Indian exporters will gain a significant advantage, leading to increased exports and better business opportunities.

Azad Singh, in charge of Amritsar Cargo, said that the first shipment under the agreement consists of ready-made garments being exported to the UK.

'Although exports from Amritsar to the UK were already taking place, the zero-tariff agreement is expected to encourage many more exporters to enter the international market,' he added.

He further informed that Amritsar Cargo primarily exports ready-made garments, sports goods, engineering products, and perishable agricultural produce such as Alphonso and Kesar mangoes, baby corn, green chillies, and other vegetables.

He expressed confidence that the agreement would open new opportunities for exporters from Punjab and further strengthen trade relations between India and the United Kingdom. (ANI)