Sanjaya Mariwala, Executive Chairman and Managing Director, OmniActive Health Technologies:
“The India–UK FTA is a welcome move. Our exports to the UK went up by 12.6 per cent last year, and this deal gives us a chance to build on that growth. But it’s not just about trade volumes—what stands out is the scope it opens up in healthcare. With regulatory barriers coming down, Indian healthcare companies will find it easier to operate in the UK, and that can lead to more affordable services and better collaboration between the two systems. That’s a space worth watching. At the same time, we can’t lose sight of the fact that FTAs only work well when businesses at home are strong.
As more of these agreements are signed, we need to back our local entrepreneurs and MSMEs with the right support—finance, infrastructure, policy clarity. With other FTAs also on the horizon, it’s time to turn inwards as much as outwards. The potential is mind-boggling, so is the need for Indian industry to succeed—not just because of the deal, but with it.”
Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator, AiMeD:
“We congratulate the Indian Government and Prime Minister on signing the Free Trade Agreement with the UK and await the details. Previously, medical devices imported into the UK were duty-free, so tariff restrictions were not an issue but regulatory approval costs and time were a challenge. We sought recognition of Indian CDSCO regulatory approval or QCIs voluntary Indian Certification for medical devices to fast-track regulatory approval by UK MHRA and address non-tariff measures faced by Indian exporters, and we look forward to an update on this. Regarding imports into India, we emphasised the need for strict monitoring and verification of Rules of Origin to prevent the misuse of the FTA by possibility of routing third-country products through the UK as purportedly UK-made goods. We welcome UK made medical products into India via this FTA.”
Pavan Choudary, Chairman, Medical Technology Association of India, MTaI:
“The UK-India FTA is a landmark agreement that goes beyond tariff reductions, it signals India’s strategic ascent as a trusted partner in the global healthcare and technology value chain. As part of this agreement, import duties on MedTech products will be reduced from approximately 15 per cent to around 3 per cent, significantly lowering costs and improving access to advanced medical technologies. This partnership also opens doors for technology transfers, joint ventures, and skilling – which is a key ingredient for building a resilient healthcare ecosystem for both the countries.”
Anand Ramanathan, Partner and Consumer Industry Leader, Deloitte South Asia:
“India’s pharmaceutical sector, known globally for its generics, will benefit from faster regulatory approvals in the UK. This could significantly expand the footprint of Indian pharma companies in the NHS supply chain. However, the inclusion of new patent provisions raises concerns about long-term access to affordable medicines, a critical issue for both domestic and global health equity.”