Thiruvananthapuram, Sept. 18 -- The free trade agreement (FTA) signed between India and the United Kingdom is expected to create both opportunities and challenges for the country's Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in Kerala, State Industries Minister P. Rajeev said on Wednesday.

Speaking in the state Assembly, Rajeev noted that tariff-free access to the UK market for key sectors such as apparel, marine, and leather products could enhance the global competitiveness of Kerala's MSMEs.

He also highlighted potential export opportunities for coffee, tea, and spices under the new trade framework.

The agreement could generate employment, foster modernisation, and open up new avenues for exports, the minister said.

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