Online event
Insights into the making of an FTA with Harjinder Kang HMTC
Tuesday 28 October at 9:30AM
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Join us for an engaging discussion with His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for South Asia & British Deputy High Commissioner to Western India, Harjinder Kang, as he describes the intricate process behind crafting a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
What you’ll learn
- Understand the Strategic Foundations of FTAs
Gain clarity on the political, economic, and legal principles that underpin Free Trade Agreements, including how national interests and global dynamics shape negotiation priorities. - Navigate the FTA Development Process
Learn the step-by-step journey from initial stakeholder consultations to treaty ratification, with insights into drafting, dispute resolution mechanisms, and compliance structures. - Apply FTA Insights to Real-World Trade Scenarios
Discover how businesses and policymakers can leverage FTAs to access new markets, reduce tariffs, and foster international partnerships—especially relevant for UK exporters targeting regions like India.
Description
From initial negotiations through to final ratification, this session offers a behind-the-scenes look at how nations collaborate to reduce trade barriers, harmonise standards, and unlock economic potential. Find out what it takes to construct one and the benefits that they offer UK companies. Don’t miss this chance to explore the art and science of trade diplomacy.
Speakers
Harjinder Kang
His Majesty's Trade Commissioner for South Asia & Deputy High Commissioner for West India in South Asia, Department for Business and Trade
Harjinder Kang is His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for South Asia and the British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India. He was appointed in May 2023.
Prior to his appointment, Harjinder was the UK’s Chief Negotiator for the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA). In parallel, he served as the Director for Trade Policy in the areas of Intellectual Property, Government Procurement and Core Text. He has previously served in the Department for International Trade as Director for Healthcare, Life Sciences, and Bioeconomy.
Before joining government, Harjinder had a career spanning nearly 30 years with AstraZeneca, one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies, joining as a Chemist and spending his early career in R&D helping to develop radiopharmaceuticals and new antibiotics. He ultimately served as the company’s Global Commercial Director, working to create and implement strategy for access to medicines for the ‘next billion’ people through creating affordable solutions for pharmaceuticals in some of the less developed parts of the world