Gender Equity Takes Center Stage in India-UK Trade Talks
Gender equity is now a key part of trade talks between India and the United Kingdom. For the first time, both countries are discussing how trade can better support women. This is happening as India and the UK work on a new Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which could shape how the two nations do business for years to come.
Why Gender Matters in Trade
Trade agreements often affect men and women in different ways. In the past, most trade deals did not think about these differences. But now, countries around the world are starting to look at the special challenges women face in business and work.
Officials from India and the UK both agree that making trade fairer for women is important. They want the FTA to help women benefit more from economic growth and to close the gender gap in business and jobs.
What Leaders Are Saying
A senior negotiator from India explained, "We are looking at how trade agreements can be more inclusive and support women entrepreneurs, workers, and consumers. The UK has brought forward several proposals on gender, and we are examining how these can be adapted to the Indian context.”
The UK’s Department for International Trade has also shared its views. They said that gender-responsive trade policies can help break down barriers for women, such as getting access to markets, money, and technology. The UK wants the deal to:
- Promote women’s participation in trade
- Support businesses owned by women
- Encourage rules that consider the needs of both genders
Challenges Facing Women in India
India has made some progress in helping women succeed in business, but there is still a long way to go. This is especially true in fields like textiles, agriculture, and small businesses (SMEs), where many women work. Indian officials say new policies could help by:
- Giving women better access to training and skill-building
- Offering more financial support for women-owned businesses
- Making it easier for women to join international markets
Expert Views: Trade Is Not Gender-Neutral
Experts believe that adding gender equity to trade agreements helps everyone. Dr. Shubha Chacko, a gender and development specialist, said, “Trade policy is not gender-neutral. Women often face unique challenges, and addressing these through trade agreements can help bridge the gender gap in economic participation.”
She and other experts think that these changes could be a model for other countries to follow.
Plans for the Future: Joint Working Group on Gender
As part of the negotiations, India and the UK are thinking about creating a joint working group on gender. This group would:
- Check if the new rules about gender are being followed
- Share ideas on how to support women in business
- Work together to solve problems women face in trade
Positive Reactions from Women’s Groups and Businesses
Many women’s organizations and business leaders are excited about these changes. Rituparna Chakraborty, co-founder of TeamLease Services, said, “This is a positive step towards recognizing the role of women in trade and ensuring that they are not left behind in the global economy.”
Women in both India and the UK could benefit from:
- More job opportunities
- Greater support for women who want to start or grow a business
- Better protection from unfair treatment at work
Looking Ahead: A New Model for Trade
As the talks continue, all eyes are on India and the UK to see if they can agree on strong measures for gender equity. If they do, their FTA could become a guide for other countries who want to make trade fairer for women.
Stakeholders in both countries are optimistic. They believe that including gender equity in the trade agreement will help both nations grow economically, improve lives, and lead the way for others to follow.
Why This Matters for People Everywhere
Making trade agreements more inclusive isn’t just good for women—it’s good for everyone. When women have equal chances to work, start businesses, and earn money, families and communities become stronger. The India-UK trade talks show how countries can work together to make a fairer future for all.