India, UK includes chapter on trade and gender equality for first time

New Delhi: India has, for the first time, agreed to include a dedicated chapter on trade and gender equality in a free trade agreement with the UK.

The purpose of this chapter, according to the FTA document, is to enhance opportunities for women, including workers, business owners and entrepreneurs, to participate equitably in global, regional, and domestic economies.

Accordingly, the two nations have agreed to advance women's economic empowerment and gender equality across this agreement.

The document said India and the UK shall endeavour to implement and enforce their respective laws, policies, practices, and regulations that promote gender equality and improve women’s access to trade and economic opportunities.

A Trade and Gender Equality Working Group has been established, consisting of government representatives. The Working Group will meet at regular intervals.

"The Trade and Gender Equality Working Group may consider any matter that it regards as appropriate to advance women’s economic empowerment and gender equality across this Agreement and otherwise achieve the objectives of this Chapter. The Trade and Gender Equality Working Group may make recommendations to the Joint Committee," it said.

It added that the working group will monitor and review the implementation and operation of this chapter.