FIFI Roundtable Focuses on Strengthening UK–India Agri-Food Trade Under CETA
The high-level session in New Delhi brought together government representatives, industry leaders and trade associations to discuss regulatory compliance, market access and opportunities across food and drink sectors.
The Forum of Indian Food Importers (FIFI), in collaboration with the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) and the UK Government (UKG), participated in a high-level interactive roundtable at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, in October 2026. The session focused on advancing bilateral food and drink trade, exploring commercial opportunities and addressing regulatory compliance under the UK–India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
UK and Indian Trade Stakeholders Discuss Market Opportunities
The session was attended by Chief Guests The Rt Hon Mr Douglas Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, and The Rt Hon Dame Angela Eagle MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
Mr. Amit Lohani, Founder Director of FIFI, delivered the keynote address, outlining the Indian food and beverage industry's perspective on emerging market opportunities, regulatory alignment and trade facilitation under CETA.
Lohani highlighted the role of collaboration among government bodies, trade platforms and industry stakeholders in easing market entry and expanding distribution channels across India.
Industry Leaders Address Regulatory Challenges
The roundtable brought together senior representatives and corporate executives from UK and global brands, including Diageo, Pernod Ricard, Annandale Distillery and Walkers Shortbread.
Trade associations participating in the discussion included the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), Salmon Scotland and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), alongside FIFI.
Discussions focused on practical approaches to addressing regulatory bottlenecks, improving food safety compliance and supporting bilateral trade growth across spirits, seafood, meat, dairy and processed food categories.
Participants Discuss Continued Trade Cooperation
The session concluded with a mutual commitment among delegates to deepen commercial ties, make use of CETA's preferential framework and establish structured channels for ongoing trade support and market intelligence sharing.