India–UK CETA IPR Chapter: Understanding the Real Impact

The India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) continues to attract significant attention, particularly the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) chapter. On September 22, 2025, a seminar was hosted titled “Demystifying the IPR Chapter in the India–UK CETA” at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, alongside the Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), where policymakers, experts, academics, and industry members discussed the real facts of the agreement.

Protecting Innovation and Access

One of the primary messages from the session was that the India–UK CETA IPR Chapter has been structured to maintain a careful balance between encouraging innovation and ensuring that essential goods and knowledge remain accessible. Experts at the seminar stated that the agreement strengthens safeguards for public health while also updating India’s intellectual property regime in line with modern standards.

It was reiterated that the IPR provisions reinforce the ability to foster innovation for Indian businesses and global partners, but not at the cost of limiting social good or access to medicines. The agreement underscores India’s intention to support both innovation and equitable access, which is an important priority for developing economies.

Emphasis on Voluntary Licensing and Public Health Safeguards

Panelists clarified that voluntary licensing will continue to be the industry’s preferred approach. They stressed that the IPR chapter fully retains the flexibilities related to compulsory licensing and public health that are outlined in the Doha Declaration. This means India preserves its right to grant compulsory licenses under specific, internationally recognized conditions, preventing any negative impact on public health response capabilities.

Experts highlighted there would be no change to how India addresses public health emergencies, debunking myths that the CETA would restrict India’s capacity to take such measures in the interest of its citizens.

Procedures, Not Autonomy: Patent Process Harmonisation

The seminar addressed concerns regarding harmonisation of patent procedures between India and the UK. Experts made it clear that any harmonisation would be strictly around procedural improvements, such as streamlining application processes. They emphasized these procedural changes do not infringe on India’s regulatory sovereignty or its ability to independently make decisions on patent grants and rejections. Regulatory autonomy remains fully with Indian authorities.

Geographical Indications: Benefits for Indian Exports

Geographical Indications (GIs) emerged as a focal topic, described as a major area of opportunity for India within the agreement. The panel explained that the IPR chapter introduces mechanisms for stronger protection of Indian GIs in the UK market. This step is expected to boost exports of products unique to India, ranging from handicrafts to specialty foods, by offering them better recognition and legal safeguards in the UK.

“The provisions in the agreement enable stronger protection of Indian GIs in the UK market, an important step to boost exports and enhance India’s cultural branding globally,” noted one representative during the seminar.

The discussion highlighted the benefits this brings to startups, MSMEs, and traditional artisans, supporting both business growth and the preservation of India’s cultural heritage.

India’s Policy Space and Development Priorities

Addressing one key area of concern, experts were decisive in clarifying that the IPR provisions of the agreement do not limit or curtail India’s policy-making independence. On the contrary, the agreement “reinforces India’s ability to frame rules in line with its developmental priorities,” and all relevant flexibilities in Indian law remain intact.

Speakers assured participants that the IPR chapter is designed to reflect India’s current legal system, ensuring compatibility and continuity. The session made clear there would be no concessions that might undermine India’s existing protections or its ability to make policy adjustments as circumstances evolve.

Sending a Positive Signal to the World

The seminar underlined that India’s commitment to a robust IP regime is communicated clearly through this chapter. Experts described the IPR chapter as a positive signal to international partners and investors, affirming India's intent to create a trustworthy, future-ready environment for innovation and investment.

The session also suggested that the approach taken in the CETA’s IPR chapter may serve as a valuable reference point for India’s future trade negotiations. The approach merges strong regulatory protections with policy flexibility, aiming to support innovation while safeguarding the interests and access rights of all stakeholders.

The session concluded with the consensus that the IPR chapter reflects a forward-looking yet pragmatic approach, with both industry and regulatory needs carefully integrated.