Tesco to Build Major Hub in Karnataka

British retail giant Tesco is planning to establish a distribution centre in Karnataka, a move expected to generate around 15,000 employment opportunities, announced Industries Minister M.B. Patil.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the British Deputy High Commission to celebrate the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Minister Patil noted the growing momentum of UK investments in the state. The FTA is set to provide duty-free access to 99% of Indian exports to the UK and 90% of UK exports to India, opening up new avenues for trade and collaboration.

Alongside Tesco, global engineering major Rolls-Royce is also exploring new investment opportunities in Karnataka. They join an established cohort of British firms—including BAE Systems, ARM, HSBC, and Aviva—which have a significant presence in Bengaluru and across the state.

“The FTA will serve as a catalyst for British companies to further scale up their investments in Karnataka’s robust industrial ecosystem,” Minister Patil stated.

The event was attended by UK Trade Commissioner Harjinder Singh, British Deputy High Commissioner Chandru Iyer, and senior officials from both sides, underscoring the strategic importance of the FTA in deepening bilateral economic ties.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.