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Britain’s fresh steel cap has slowed the India-UK trade pact rollout, leaving exporters waiting for a fix before duty benefits begin on schedule this year.
Key Takeaways
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement is facing a steel-linked delay just before implementation. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said on 15 May 2026 that the UK’s steel safeguard was not part of the original talks and both sides were trying to find a “unique and creative solution”.
In the short term, Indian steel exporters may face shipment uncertainty and pricing pressure. In the long term, the issue can reduce gains from the FTA if quota limits make duty-free access harder for steel products. India’s iron and steel and related exports to the UK stood at $893.4 million in 2025-26. Readers can also check trade and finance explainers on LoansJagat.
The UK government note published in April 2026 says tariff-free steel quota volumes will be cut by 60% from 1 July 2026. Steel imports beyond quota will face a 50% tariff.
This creates a clash between a broad trade pact and a sector-specific protection move. The FTA aims to open the UK market, while the steel safeguard narrows tariff-free room for one sensitive export segment.
Indian firms exporting steel and steel-linked products may have to plan around limited quota space. If shipments cross the quota, a 50% tariff can hit margins, contract pricing and delivery commitments. Smaller exporters may find it harder to absorb the extra cost.
The wider benefit is still strong for India if the steel issue is settled. The Commerce Ministry’s 24 July 2025 CETA note said 99% of Indian exports to the UK will get tariff-free access, covering nearly 100% of trade value, including labour-intensive sectors.
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For Indian households, the direct effect may be limited. The indirect effect can come through export jobs, factory orders and MSME suppliers connected to engineering, auto components and metal products.
Agrawal said India and the UK are “very near” to operationalising the FTA and are working together on a solution around the steel measure. Reuters reported on 15 May 2026 that the safeguard had delayed implementation discussions.
The UK says the steel measure is aimed at protecting domestic production from global overcapacity. Reuters reported on 19 March 2026 that Britain planned to lower tariff-free quotas by 60% and raise out-of-quota tariffs to 50%. The Guardian also reported the same tariff shift on 19 March 2026. A practical fix could be India-specific quota flexibility, a transition window or product-level relief.
The India-UK FTA is still a major trade opening, but steel has become its first big stress point.
A quick settlement can protect export gains before the pact starts delivering on the ground.
How much can Indian businesses benefit from the India-UK FTA?
Yes, small Indian exporters can gain from the India-UK FTA, but it will depend on the product they sell. The deal is expected to give zero-duty access to 99% of Indian exports going to the UK. This can help sellers of textiles, leather goods, footwear, gems, jewellery, tea, coffee, spices and engineering goods. Lower duty may help them quote better prices to UK buyers. But they still have to follow UK rules on quality, labelling, paperwork and delivery timelines. So, the FTA gives a good opening, but exporters must prepare properly.
Will UK companies pay more if imported steel tariffs rise?
Yes, many UK companies may have to pay more if imported steel becomes costly due to higher tariffs. Firms in construction, machinery, car parts, tools and fabrication often use foreign steel because it is available at a better price or in the required grade.
Once duties rise, their purchase cost also goes up. Some businesses may raise prices for customers. Some may accept lower profit for a while. Small firms can feel more pressure because they cannot buy huge stock in advance. Local steel plants may get support, but steel users may face higher bills.
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