India–UK CETA Webinar Highlights Growth Potential for Mineral and Aluminum Sectors

A high-profile webinar organised by India’s Ministry of Mines has spotlighted significant benefits for the country's mineral sector under the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). Industry representatives and key officials explored how the pact can enhance market access, promote innovation, and boost competitiveness—especially in the aluminium industry.

Forum for Industry Leaders and Government Officials

Chaired by V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, the webinar brought together senior figures from the Ministry, the High Commission of India in London, and representatives from trade bodies such as the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI), Aluminium Association of India (AAI), Aluminium Secondary Manufacturers Association (ASMA), and Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI).

Aluminium Industry’s Enhanced UK Access

Secretary Kantha Rao emphasised in his speech the potential benefits of CETA for the aluminium sector, especially regarding enhanced market access and worldwide competitiveness. He emphasised the need to use roadshows and other market outreach activities to comprehend UK demand.

Top industrial voices, including Vedanta’s Aluminium CEO, along with leaders from NALCO, BALCO, Hindalco, ASMA, and MRAI, reiterated the pact’s potential to accelerate growth in both the primary and secondary aluminium sectors.

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Focus on R&D and Innovation

Dr Anupam Agnihotri, Director at JNARDDC, emphasised leveraging the pact’s innovation provisions through deeper research and development collaboration with UK institutions. Similarly, Nidhi Mani Tripathi, Economic Minister at the High Commission in London, urged alignment between Indian product offerings and UK market needs to gain traction.

Webinar Attendance

The webinar saw robust engagement, with over 230 participants tuning in, highlighting widespread industry interest in maximising the benefits of the trade deal.

Broader CETA Benefits

Beyond minerals, CETA promises sweeping tariff reductions—India will lower duties on 90 per cent of UK goods, while the UK will do the same for 99 per cent of Indian exports. This is expected to ease trade across multiple sectors, including textiles, leather, and agriculture, while also lowering the costs of imported items such as cosmetics and medical devices for Indian consumers.

Conclusion

The webinar confirms that CETA is more than a trade agreement—it is a platform for industry transformation. For India’s mineral and aluminium sectors, the accord opens doors to enhanced UK market access, stronger competitiveness, and collaborative R&D. Boosted by strategic outreach and policy alignment, these developments could catalyse lasting growth in the years to come.