Chandigarh, October 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister Aman Arora held strategic discussions with a high-level British delegation led by Deputy High Commissioner in Chandigarh Alba Smeriglio at Invest Punjab, positioning the state as a preferred manufacturing base for UK businesses seeking to leverage zero-duty access under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
During the meeting, Arora showcased Punjab’s Industrial and Business Development Policy 2026 and its dedicated FTA and Export Facilitation Cell, highlighting the state’s efforts to strengthen bilateral trade, attract investments and facilitate exports.
The British delegation included Alba Smeriglio, First Secretary Trade-India Dr Nicholas Gribit and Senior Trade Adviser at the British High Commission Anup Narayan.
Chairing the meeting, Arora highlighted Punjab’s industrial resurgence and readiness to integrate with UK supply chains. Discussions focused on high-growth sectors, including agri-business, food processing, engineering, auto components and industry-linked skill development.
“Punjab is not just the food bowl of India, but is rapidly emerging as a hub of modern industry and innovation. Our dialogue with the UK delegation focused on leveraging vast opportunities under the India-UK CETA. Punjab’s strengths in agri-business and engineering are a natural fit for UK expertise,” he said.
Highlighting the state’s investor-friendly governance, the Industries Minister outlined the Industrial and Business Development Policy 2026, which aims to create a seamless ecosystem for global investors. He also highlighted the dedicated FTA and Export Facilitation Cell, established to guide international businesses in leveraging trade agreements and maximising export opportunities from Punjab.
“With Industrial and Business Development Policy 2026 and our dedicated FTA and Export Facilitation Cell, we are offering a plug-and-play ecosystem for UK businesses to Make in Punjab for the world. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government is committed to being the preferred investment destination for the UK,” Arora said.
He added that the partnership would promote industrial growth and generate high-quality employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
The British delegation expressed keen interest in Punjab’s skilled workforce and the state’s efforts to align skill development with industry requirements, particularly in manufacturing and food processing.
Elaborating on Punjab’s investment readiness, Administrative Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Dr Basant Garg said the state offered seamless market access, strong logistics connectivity and a highly skilled workforce.
He emphasised that the FTA and Export Facilitation Cell would provide end-to-end support to UK companies in regulatory compliance, market linkages and export promotion under the CETA framework.
Garg added that both sides would maintain sustained engagement and facilitate structured business-to-business interactions between Punjab’s industries and British businesses to translate discussions into tangible investments.
Director of Industries Jaspreet Singh, Managing Director of Punjab Financial Corporation Senu Duggal and other officials were also present at the meeting.
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