Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), was part of the distinguished Indian Business Delegation accompanying Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal during his official visit to London for UK-India Week 2026.
The visit marks a historic milestone as India and the United Kingdom prepare to implement the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Double Contribution Convention (DCC), both set to come into effect on 15 July 2026. These landmark agreements are expected to deepen bilateral economic ties, boost trade, and create new opportunities for businesses across both nations.
Dr. Sakthivel expressed his appreciation to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his visionary leadership in strengthening India’s global trade partnerships. He also commended Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal for his instrumental role in bringing the landmark agreement to fruition and congratulated him on receiving the “Exceptional Leadership in Elevating UK-India Ties” award.
During the visit, Dr. Sakthivel also met with Mr. Peter Kyle MP, UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to discuss ways to further strengthen India-UK cooperation in trade, innovation, and investment. He highlighted the significant opportunities the India-UK CETA presents for India’s apparel industry, particularly in enhancing market access, increasing exports, attracting investments, and improving the global competitiveness of Indian apparel manufacturers.
The participation of AEPC in the high-level business delegation underscores the Council’s commitment to supporting the growth of India’s apparel exports and leveraging the benefits of the India-UK CETA to expand the sector’s global footprint.
