Chandigarh, October 30
Positioning Punjab as a prime manufacturing base for UK businesses to leverage zero-duty access under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Punjab Industries & Commerce Minister Aman Arora held strategic talks with a high-level British delegation led by Deputy High Commissioner, Chandigarh, Alba Smeriglio at Invest Punjab, showcasing the state’s new Industrial & Business Development Policy 2026 and dedicated FTA & Export Facilitation Cell to boost bilateral trade and investments.
The British delegation comprised Alba Smeriglio, First Secretary Trade- India Dr Nicholas Gribit and Senior Trade Adviser, British High Commission Anup Narayan.
While chairing the meeting, Arora showcased Punjab’s industrial resurgence and readiness to integrate with UK supply chains, with deliberations focused on high-growth sectors including agri-business, food processing, engineering, auto components and industry-linked skilling.
Arora said that Punjab’s strategic advantage as a gateway to North India makes it an ideal base for UK businesses. “Punjab is not just the food bowl of India, but is rapidly emerging as a hub of modern industry and innovation. Our dialogue with the UK delegation focused on leveraging vast opportunities under the India-UK CETA. Punjab’s strengths in agri-business and engineering are a natural fit for UK expertise,” he said.
Highlighting the state’s investor-friendly governance, the Industries Minister detailed the Industrial & Business Development Policy 2026, aimed at creating a frictionless ecosystem for global investors. He also highlighted the dedicated FTA & Export Facilitation Cell set up to handhold international businesses in leveraging trade agreements and maximising export potential from Punjab.
“With Industrial & Business Development Policy 2026 and our dedicated FTA & Export Facilitation Cell, we are offering a plug-and-play ecosystem for UK businesses to Make in Punjab for the world. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann led Punjab government is committed to being the preferred investment destination for the UK,” Arora stated, while adding that this partnership will drive industrial growth and create high-quality jobs for youth.