UK-India SME Meeting - Held on 11 July 2025 at UK Parliament

On Friday, 11 July, the UK-India SME Meeting was held at the UK House of Parliament in London.

Organised by the Europe India Centre for Business and Industry (EICBI) and supported by Abiflo, the meeting focused on discussions surrounding the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and broader UK-India relations. The conference primarily addressed the benefits of the FTA for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and explored the challenges and bottlenecks in the trade relationship.

The event brought together policymakers, business leaders, and stakeholders who have a shared interest in the FTA. Distinguished speakers included Lord Rami Ranger, Member of the House of Lords.

The bilateral agreement between the UK and India presents a range of challenges for SMEs seeking to expand into new markets. Navigating these challenges involves complex processes. Recognising this, Europe India Centre for Business and Industry organises conferences and parliamentary sessions to gather insights from industry professionals and policymakers, helping SMEs to understand the trade environment and avoid potential bottlenecks. While challenges exist, the opportunities presented by the FTA are significantly greater. For SMEs to benefit fully, it is important to have a clear understanding of the market and regulatory framework in which they aim to operate.

The meeting was anchored by Europe India Centre for Business and Industry, Vice Chair- Events, Mr. Abhishek Tripathi, who opened the session by highlighting the positive outlook of the FTA and the opportunities it presents.

The speakers included:

• Lord Rami Ranger, Member of the House of Lords, UK Parliament

• Mr. Sujit S Nair, Chairman, Europe India Centre for Business and Industry

• Mr. Virendra Sharma, Former Member of UK Parliament and Senior Ruling Labour Party Leader

• Cllr. Aarien Areti, Europe India Centre for Business and Industry, Vice Chair -Government Relations and Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London

• Mr. Harsh Patel, CEO of Water and Shark

• Ms. Andrea Winders, Head of Inward Investment for Life Sciences and Healthcare at MIDAS, Greater Manchester

• Dr. Ravishankar Polisetty, CEO of Sai Ganga Panakeia Ltd

  
  

The audience consisted of business professionals from various sectors, including AI technology, aerospace, and university students.

In his opening remarks, Lord Rami Ranger graciously shared his humble beginning, and his personal ingredients used for success. His poignant statement was that Government from both countries must ensure support for SMEs to achieve success as they are the driving force of nations significant to economic growth.

The second speaker, Mr. Sujit Nair, spoke on the value and volume of trade that takes place between both countries, figures of £46 billion generated with forecast for more growth as other areas of huge investment possibilities in South of India has yet to be totally explored.

Supporting this view, Mr. Virendra Sharma encouraged UK-based SMEs to look beyond traditional business centres like Mumbai and explore the southern regions of India for expansion.

Europe India Centre for Business and Industry, Vice Chair - Government Relations, Cllr. Aarien Areti, highlighted the huge contribution of the Indian diaspora in the UK throughout all sectors of the society and its growing influence in areas such as digital technology. Direct and indirect trade from the diaspora is also a huge economic contribution. He also stated the FTA will increase economic activities resulting in benefits.

Mr. Harsh Patel addressed the impact of the FTA on tariff reductions, especially in sectors such as the import and export of alcoholic beverages, where businesses stand to benefit significantly.

Ms. Andrea Winders, a business leader and investment professional, spoke about the importance of collaboration and innovation, particularly in her areas of expertise in life sciences and healthcare, between the two countries.

Lastly, Dr. Ravishankar Polisetty, a cardiac surgeon, Ayurvedic specialist, and data scientist, discussed his research in autism and ADHD. He stressed the need for wider research, greater awareness, and the removal of stigma around these conditions.

The contributions of all speakers harnessed the main theme of the meeting — the vast potential of the India–UK FTA for SMEs. The discussion concluded on an optimistic note, with broad agreement that the opportunities far outweigh the challenges, and that strengthened cooperation will bring meaningful economic benefits to both nations.