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Harjinder Kang was been appointed as His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) to South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner for Western India, succeeding Alan Gemmell OBE on 3 May.

HMTCs lead the UK’s overseas effort to promote UK trade, investment, trade policy and export finance.

As the new Trade Commissioner for South Asia, Harjinder will generate business opportunities for the UK while contributing to the growth of sustainable, resilient, and productive economies across the South Asia region.

Prior to his promotion to HMTC, Harjinder was the UK’s Chief Negotiator for the UK-India Free Trade Agreement. He will be succeeded in this role by Kate Thornley, previously Deputy Chief Negotiator.

In his new position, Harjinder will play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, which could bring huge opportunities for UK businesses.

Before joining the Department for Business and Trade, Harjinder spent nearly 30 years at AstraZeneca, later becoming the Global Commercial Director, focusing on creating affordable solutions for pharmaceutical access in less developed regions. He is also a member of the Council of the University of Birmingham.

Business and Trade Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, said, “I am delighted to welcome Harjinder to this role. He has been an integral part of our India trade deal negotiating team and I’m confident he will use that experience to build on our outstanding track record on trade in South Asia, expanding opportunities for British businesses in untapped markets.”

With an economy worth over £3.2 trillion and a growing population, a flourishing trade and investment relationship with South Asia holds vast potential for UK businesses and consumers.

HM Trade Commissioner for South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner for Western India, Harjinder Kang, said, “It is an honour to be appointed as Trade Commissioner for South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner for Western India, both vibrant and growing regions which are pivotal to the UK’s security and prosperity.

“I am deeply committed to fostering strong relationships between the UK and South Asia and am excited about the opportunities ahead as we strengthen our economic ties and forge new partnerships in the region to create jobs, promote innovation and drive economic growth at home and abroad.”