Officials stated that the agreement, which entered into force on Wednesday, significantly strengthens Indian steel exporters' access to the UK market.
The UK's steel safeguard measures, introduced in March, had been one of the main obstacles to the implementation of CETA, which was signed on July 24, 2025. Following negotiations between the two sides, the issue was resolved, allowing the agreement to take effect on July 15.
According to officials, the UK's safeguard measures covered 188 steel product categories, representing USD 137 million worth of India's steel exports to the UK. India's total steel exports reached USD 960 million in 2025.
India's steel quota increased
Following consultations with industry stakeholders, India requested an increase in its steel quota allocated under the UK's safeguard measures.
Government officials stated that extensive negotiations at all levels between the two countries secured stronger market access and ensured trade continuity for Indian exporters.
Under the new framework, India's total country-specific quota (CSQ) has been increased to 168,029 mt. In addition, exporters will have access to a dedicated 945,000 mt quota under the Authorised Use Scheme (AUS).
Duty-free access expanded for key steel products
To minimize potential trade disruptions and maintain the balance of the bilateral agreement, the UK expanded duty-free access for India across several key steel product categories.
The country-specific quota for non-alloy and other alloy hot-rolled sheets and strips was almost tripled, increasing from 12,405 mt to 33,456 mt.
In another significant development for Indian exporters, the UK allocated 40% of the AUS quota to India, creating an additional dedicated trade volume of approximately 945,000 mt.
Furthermore, nine commodity codes under Category 28 (non-alloy wire) were removed from the safeguard measures, exempting approximately 95% of India's exports in this category from the restrictions.
Officials also noted that India secured expanded market access in several critical sub-categories. Under the new arrangement, the residual quota for Category 12B (non-alloy merchant bars and light sections) increased from 468 mt to 4,540 mt, while the residual quota for Category 26 (other welded tubes and pipes) rose from 10,809 mt to 16,327 mt.
Indian officials stated that extensive negotiations were held with the UK to safeguard the interests of domestic exporters, adding that the agreement significantly reduces the negative impact of the UK's steel safeguard measures on Indian steel exports.
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