We recently joined a webinar from the Department for Business & Trade’s Business Academy, focusing on the UK–India trade deal (CETA) and what it means in practical terms for businesses looking to export. And if we’re honest, this one felt particularly relevant. 

India is a huge, fast-growing market and, for many in the home and giftware sector, it represents a real opportunity — whether that’s exporting British-made products, exploring partnerships, or simply understanding how global trade is shifting. 
But as with most things in international trade, the reality is more complex than the headlines. So, we’ve pulled together our key takeaways from the session: what stood out, what might matter for your business, and where to start if exporting to India is something you’re considering.  (As always, this is based on what we learned from the webinar and not specialist advice. If you’re actively looking to export, it’s well worth reaching out to our International Team.) 
 
First impressions… this is a long-term opportunity 

One of the biggest themes running through the session was that this isn’t about quick wins. Yes, the trade deal is significant, but the benefits will come in stages over time. Some tariffs drop immediately, while others reduce gradually over 5, 7 or even 10 years. 

For example: 
- Some everyday goods (like detergents or certain machinery) move to 0% tariffs straight away  
- Others (like chocolate or pet food) reduce over several years  
- Some categories remain more protected or restricted  

So, while the direction of travel is positive, this is very much about playing the long game. 
 
Tariffs are improving — but not disappearing overnight 

The headline message is that tariffs between the UK and India are coming down, which is good news for exporters. 
But the detail matters. 

- Each product sits within its own category, and each category has its own timeline and rules. 
- For businesses in the giftware space, that could include: 
- Home fragrance or personal care items  
- Decorative products  
- Packaging or materials  
- Small electrical or design-led goods  

The key takeaway: 
You need to understand exactly how your specific product is classified, because that determines everything. 
 
Commodity codes: not exciting, but essential 

If there was one practical takeaway from the session, it was this: 

- Know your commodity code. 
- It underpins everything — from tariffs and paperwork to eligibility under the trade deal. 
- There are government tools available to help you find and check this (including duties, taxes and requirements), and they’re well worth using early on. 
- It might feel like a technical detail, but getting this wrong can lead to delays, unexpected costs, or even rejected shipments. 
 
Rules of Origin… the part that really matters 

This was one of the most complex — but also one of the most important — parts of the webinar.  In simple terms, Rules of Origin determine whether your product qualifies for the reduced tariffs under the trade deal.  It’s not enough to be a UK business exporting to India — your product itself must meet certain criteria. 

For example: 
- Where your materials come from  
- Where your product is manufactured or assembled  
- How much of its value is created in the UK  

There are different ways this is assessed, including changes in tariff classification and value thresholds (often around 35–45%). 

For many giftware businesses — especially those sourcing components or materials globally — this is something to consider carefully. 
 
What this means for giftware businesses 

If you’re in the home and giftware sector, this trade deal could open up opportunities — but it also raises a few important questions: 

- Where are your products actually made?  
- Where do your materials come from?  
- Would your products qualify under Rules of Origin?  
- Is the Indian market right for your price point and positioning?  

For example, a UK-designed product manufactured overseas may not qualify in the same way as one made in the UK. 
This doesn’t mean exporting isn’t possible — but the route (and costs) may look different. 
 
There’s support available — and it’s worth using 

Another reassuring takeaway was the level of support available, particularly for businesses new to exporting. 

There are tools and services to help you: 

- Understand your market  
- Build an export plan  
- Check duties and paperwork  
- Access one-to-one advice  

Importantly, this support continues beyond the launch of the trade deal. The Department for Business & Trade is actively seeking feedback from businesses to understand how things are working in practice. 
 
A realistic perspective 

This isn’t the kind of opportunity where you read one article and start exporting next month. There’s a learning curve, and there are details to get right. But for businesses willing to take the time to understand it, there is real potential — particularly as tariffs reduce further over time. 
 
Final thoughts 

The UK–India trade deal is a positive step and could open doors for businesses in our sector, particularly those looking to grow internationally.  But, as always, the opportunity sits in the detail.  Understanding your product, your supply chain, and how the rules apply to you is key. 

This blog is simply our reflection on the Business Academy session — a starting point rather than a definitive guide. If exporting to, or importing from, India is something you’re seriously considering, please reach out to our International Team for further support.