Contributors
Exploring inclusive trade and the UK’s first gender chapter with a major economy
Recently, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Womble Bond Dickinson hosted a landmark event exploring what the UK–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) means for women in trade and business. The event brought together government, business, and academia to discuss how the FTA’s new gender provisions can support inclusive economic growth.
Why this event matters
The UK–India FTA marks a significant milestone - the first UK trade deal with a major economy to include formal gender provisions, committing both countries to remove barriers, improve access to finance, and create opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
With trade between West Yorkshire and India worth nearly £1 billion annually, and more than 600 local firms exporting goods to India, the region is well placed to lead practical conversations about what inclusive trade can look like in action.
Setting the scene
The event opened with a powerful lecture by historian Vine Pemberton Joss, who told the story of Dr Edith Pechey – Yorkshire’s first female doctor who built lasting links with India through her work establishing the Cama Hospital in Mumbai. Vine’s reflections provided a moving reminder of West Yorkshire’s enduring connection to India and the ongoing journey toward equality in education, health, and economic participation.
Panel discussion: turning commitments into action
A panel chaired by Tania Arora from Baker McKenzie explored how the gender chapter can be translated into meaningful change.
Panellists and speakers included:
- Kate Thornley, UK Chief Negotiator for the UK–India FTA
- Nidhi Mani Tripathi, Minister (Economic) and Chief UK-India FTA Negotiator, Indian High Commission
- Clair Gammage, Professor of International Trade Law, University of Bristol
- Fiona Conor, Managing Director, Trust Electric Heating
- Anna Parker, Head of International Sales, Paxman Scalp Cooling
- Vishakha Yaduvanshi, Indian Consul General in Manchester
- Sharon Jandu OBE, Managing Director, Northern Powerhouse Ethnic Minority Business & Policy Forum
- Rose Smalley-Gordon, Managing Associate at Womble Bond Dickinson
Discussions focused on the practical implications of the FTA for women-led businesses, the importance of inclusive finance, and the role of local ecosystems in supporting exporters. Speakers shared lived experiences, academic insight, and policy context, generating lively debate and a clear appetite for collaboration.
Key takeaways
- The UK–India FTA’s gender provisions provide a platform for local businesses to engage with global markets on more equal terms.
- Women-led firms in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and digital technology are well positioned to benefit from emerging trade opportunities with India.
- Inclusive trade requires joined-up support - from local authorities, business networks, academia, and national government.
- Cultural and historical ties, including through the South Asian diaspora, are powerful enablers of economic partnership.
Looking ahead
The event formed part of West Yorkshire Combined Authority wider UK–India engagement programme, following a successful 2025 trade mission and ahead of further sector-focused activity planned for 2026.
West Yorkshire is uniquely placed to deepen its partnership with India - home to a diverse business base, world-leading universities, and a vibrant diaspora that continues to connect the region globally.
The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, met with speakers and delegates to thank them for their leadership and reaffirm West Yorkshire Combined Authority commitment to creating opportunities for women and diverse founders.
Speaking about the event, Alex Wright, Inclusive Economy Manager at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority said:
“West Yorkshire’s relationship with India continues to grow from strength to strength. This event was a reminder that while trade is often measured in numbers and deals, at its heart it’s about people - the innovators, entrepreneurs and changemakers building bridges across our regions. By championing women in trade and investment, we’re helping ensure our partnership with India reflects the diversity, creativity and ambition of both our economies.”
Rose Smalley-Gordon, Managing Associate at Womble Bond Dickinson, who spoke at the event, added:
"I was honoured to participate in such fantastic event. I'm always interested to explore how gender disparity still affects us. My research showed that, currently, only around 15% of businesses engaged in international trade are led by women. However, when women are engaged in international trade, they so often excel, anecdotally exporting to more countries than men-led businesses.
It was fantastic to gather together to hear about the innovation, inspiration, and ingenuity in women-led businesses in the region. Hopefully, the UK-India Free Trade Agreement may be the catalyst for building inclusive networks and infrastructure to support women in making the most of the opportunities afforded by the deal. Womble Bond Dickinson is in an excellent position to provide insights built on its experience in international trade, alongside our commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion, including through our WBD Thrive network."
