Steel Barrier: The Hurdle in India-UK Trade Deal

India's trade deal with the United Kingdom has encountered an unexpected challenge due to new steel import restrictions introduced by the UK.

Trade Secretary Rajesh Agrawal disclosed on Friday that these measures were unforeseen and are affecting the finalization of the agreement, which was originally slated for implementation by May.

The UK, in a move to protect its domestic industry, has tightened safeguards, thereby limiting tariff-free steel quotas and imposing heavy duties on surplus shipments. The curbs threaten to undermine market access advantages for Indian exporters. Negotiations continue as both nations strive to resolve the issue and expedite the agreement's execution.

(With inputs from agencies.)