Technology

The partnership between India and the UK demonstrates the power of collaboration that drives innovation and tech-driven growth.

By leveraging each other’s strengths, the two nations are creating a dynamic ecosystem that fosters technological advancements, enhances economic prosperity, and addresses global challenges.

In March 2025, the UK’s Foreign Secretary and Indian External Affairs Minister met to drive forward the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, centering our relationship on mutual economic growth, technological innovation and collaboration on global challenges including climate change.

The two nations have now concluded talks on a trade deal. Agreement was reached on 6 May 2025 between the two Prime Ministers, following final talks in London between the Business and Trade Secretary, the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP, and the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal.

This deal will help support collaboration in areas like agriculture, health, advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

The UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI)opens www.gov.uk in a new tab, a first-of-its-kind agreement built on partnerships between government, industry and academia, was launched in July 2024 by the UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This strategic partnership focuses on critical and emerging technologies such as AI, quantum computing and semiconductors. This initiative underscores the strategic importance of a collaborative approach in building resilient and innovative tech ecosystems.

Together, India and the UK are working hand in hand to build a resilient digital future, address cybersecurity threats and reinforce trust in our technology infrastructure. United by common values of creativity and enterprise, India and the UK are committed to building technological bridges that transform industries and improve lives across the globe.

Invest in the UK

The UK is a global leader in technology and innovation, with a tech sector valued at over $1 trillion. It’s renowned for its resilience and growth, with an 81.3% increase in Gross Value Added (GVA) terms since 2010¹opens www.techuk.org in a new tab. The UK’s business-friendly environment features streamlined regulations that make establishing and scaling operations remarkably straightforward.

The UK is also a top destination for venture capital. Tech start-ups raised $21.3 billion in 2023 alone — exceeding France and Germany combined — with Europe’s highest concentration of unicorns (150+) and strategic innovation hubs across London, Thames Valley, Manchester and Cambridge. Indian businesses benefit from diverse regional strengths supported by specialised accelerators and incubators.

The UK ranks third globally for AI companies, with over 3,000, and holds world-leading positions in quantum technologies (second globally) and cybersecurity (2,100 specialised firms). This innovation is supported by world-class digital infrastructure and business-friendly policies including R&D tax credits and the Enterprise Investment Scheme.

Together, these capabilities provide Indian companies with the perfect environment to scale internationally while accessing specialised expertise across emerging technology sectors.

Export to India

India is one of the fastest-growing tech markets, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation and innovation. The Indian government’s initiatives, such as Digital India and Make in India, are propelling the tech sector forward, encouraging investments in digital infrastructure, AI and semiconductor manufacturing. India’s large and youthful population provides a vast talent pool and a dynamic consumer market.

India’s technology sector has established itself as a powerhouse of innovation and growth, driven by several key factors. The country boasts a deep technology talent base, with over 5.4 million professionals in the industry, driving innovation and supporting tech operations worldwide.

It is also home to the third-largest start-up ecosystem globally, with over 99,000 start-ups recognised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) as of May 2023.

The Indian tech industry is projected to reach $500 billion by 2030, reflecting its robust growth trajectory supported by increasing digital adoption and a focus on emerging technologies. India’s capabilities in technology make it a key player on the global stage, offering many opportunities for shared collaboration and innovation²opens www.grantthornton.in in a new tab.

What’s new: London Tech Week

London Tech Week is the UK’s largest tech event, bringing together over 45,000 innovators, leaders and visionaries with 400+ world-class speakers across 70+ events throughout London. It offers unmatched networking opportunities that connect the entire tech ecosystem, allowing delegates to meet businesses investing in future technologies.

The event showcases cutting-edge advancements in AI, quantum computing and sustainable tech solutions, while driving significant initiatives.