India and the United Kingdom are on the verge of operationalising their long-anticipated free trade agreement (FTA), but new British safeguard measures on steel imports have emerged as a significant hurdle. The UK's recent announcement to cut tariff-free steel import quotas by nearly 60% starting from July 1, 2026 has raised alarms among Indian officials. This measure, aimed at protecting domestic steel producers in the UK amid global trade pressures, could dilute the expected benefits for Indian steel exporters under the FTA. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal has indicated that both nations are seeking a 'creative solution' to navigate these concerns, as the revised quota framework introduces uncertainty for Indian shipments. Despite this friction, both parties are committed to moving forward with the agreement, which is expected to significantly enhance market access across goods and services. The FTA will also foster deeper cooperation in sectors such as mobility, technology, investment, and clean energy, marking a pivotal step in India-UK trade relations.