Birrell determined to help UK exporters to sell more in India
Following the signature of the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the food and drink sector is emerging as a key driver of bilateral trade, given that the trade pact is expected to create new opportunities for exporters and importers in both countries by improving market access and strengthening commercial ties.
The deal will lead to an increase in bilateral trade by British Pounds25.5 billion every year in the long term, supporting new jobs and growth across both economies.
Reflecting on this momentum, the UK Government represented by the British High Commission in India has brought a delegation of food and drink companies to AAHAR 2026 – India’s largest B2B food and hospitality exhibition held 10–14 March 2026 in New Delhi.
The UK Pavilion showcased a broad range of products across high-growth categories including health and wellbeing, dairy, vegan foods, confectionery and soft drinks. A delegation of UK food and drink companies will take part, engaging directly with Indian importers, distributors, HoReCa operators, modern retail buyers and institutional partners.
Commenting on the UK’s participation, Mark Birrell, Trade Counsellor at the British High Commission in India, said on 11 Mar, “Indian consumers already enjoy a wide range of British food and drink products, but we are determined to help UK exporters to sell even more to this exciting and fast-growing market. The new UK-India Free Trade Agreement will support this, with trade becoming faster, cheaper and easier. Our presence at AAHAR 2026 reflects our commitment to strengthening trade ties and working with Indian partners to deliver high-quality, trusted food and drink products from the UK.”
The UK’s presence aligns with efforts to engage India’s rapidly expanding food and drink market while showcasing the strength of the UK’s over British Pound100 billion food and drink industry.
Participating brands at AAHAR 2026 included:
• Berrington Pure Spring Water Co: Premium natural spring water from the UK.
• Filberts Fine Foods Limited: Specialists in high–quality roasted nuts and savoury snacks.
• Smylie: A leading exporter of British grocery brands worldwide.
• Wily’s ACV: Producers of raw, organic apple cider vinegar supporting gut health. Fiinews.com
