UK appoints Harjinder Kang as Trade Commissioner for South Asia

Harjinder Kang has been named the UK's Trade Commissioner to South Asia and Deputy High Commissioner for Western India to oversee the nation's international efforts to promote trade, investment, trade policy, and export financing.

Kang, who served as the chief negotiator for the UK-India FTA, will be the key to advancing the agreement's implementation, which could present enormous prospects for British companies. In his new role, he will generate business opportunities while contributing to the growth of sustainable, resilient, and productive economies across the South Asia region, a UK government statement read.

"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," Kang said in a statement.

"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," UK Business and Trade Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, said.

Before joining the Department for Business and Trade, Kang worked for AstraZeneca for almost 30 years, rising to the position of global commercial director while concentrating on developing accessible, cost-effective pharmaceutical solutions for less developed regions. He also serves on the University of Birmingham Council.