The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), organized a seminar on “Demystifying the IPR Chapter in the India–UK CETA” at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi. The seminar brought together policymakers, domain experts, academia and industry representatives to deliberate on the opportunities and concerns related to the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) provisions of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

Experts at the seminar underlined that the IPR chapter strikes a careful balance between fostering innovation and ensuring access. It was emphasised that the provisions reinforce safeguards for public health while modernising India’s IP framework. Participants reiterated that voluntary licensing continues to be the preferred industry practice, while the flexibilities relating to compulsory licensing and public health, as enshrined in the Doha Declaration, remain fully preserved.

Concerns over harmonisation of patent processes were addressed, with experts clarifying that these are procedural improvements that in no way affect India’s regulatory autonomy.Geographical Indications (GIs) emerged as a significant area of opportunity, with provisions in the agreement enabling stronger protection of Indian GIs in the UK market—an important step to boost exports and enhance India’s cultural branding globally. Industry representatives highlighted that this would benefit startups, MSMEs and traditional producers alike.

The panels dispelled several myths surrounding the agreement and clarified that the IPR chapter does not curtail India’s policy space. Instead, it reinforces India’s ability to frame rules in line with its developmental priorities. It was also underlined that the chapter reflects India’s existing legal framework while sending a positive signal to global partners and investors about the country’s commitment to a robust and forward-looking IP regime.

The seminar concluded with the message that the IPR chapter of the India–UK CETA provides a template for future trade negotiations—combining regulatory rigour with flexibility, supporting innovation while safeguarding access, and strengthening India’s position in the evolving global trade landscape.

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Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Shabbir Azad

 

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