TEA engages Indian Consulate in Birmingham on UK FTA, Trade Promotion and Market Access

TIRUPUR : The Tiruppur Exporters’ Association (TEA) held a strategic interaction with Dr. Venkatachalam Murugan, Consul General of India in Birmingham, to discuss the progress of the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), market access opportunities and measures to strengthen India’s apparel exports to the United Kingdom.

During the meeting, TEA highlighted the significant potential of the UK market, which imported over US$ 19 billion worth of apparel in 2024, while India’s share remains below 6%, indicating substantial headroom for growth. The association emphasized that the proposed FTA could enhance India’s competitiveness through tariff rationalisation, improved market access and streamlined trade procedures.

TEA sought clarity on the expected timeline of the FTA and underlined the importance of early conclusion of the agreement to help Indian exporters compete more effectively with countries enjoying preferential access to the UK market.

The association also requested detailed information on major textile and apparel trade fairs in the UK and explored possibilities for coordinated participation by Tiruppur-based exporters. In addition, TEA sought support from the Consulate in facilitating visa recommendation letters for members travelling to the United States for business promotion activities.

To strengthen outreach in the UK, TEA proposed targeted advertising in Drapers Record magazine to enhance visibility of Indian manufacturers among UK buyers. The association further suggested organizing focused buyer–seller meets, particularly aimed at MSME exporters, to expand direct engagement with retail chains and sourcing agencies.

Dr. Murugan informed that more than 150 Indian companies participate in UK trade fairs annually and encouraged greater participation from Tiruppur exporters. He also drew attention to the State Facilitation Fund and advised TEA to coordinate with the Market Access Initiative (MAI) team for financial and logistical support for trade promotion activities.

Both sides discussed the need for sustained institutional engagement, capacity building for exporters, and enhanced branding initiatives to position India as a reliable and sustainable sourcing destination in the UK market.

TEA reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Indian Consulate and relevant authorities to expand export opportunities, enhance MSME participation and strengthen India’s footprint in the UK apparel sector.