Tesco to set up distribution centre in Karnataka, create 15,000 jobs: Industries Minister MB Patil

United Kingdom-based retail major Tesco will open a new distribution centre in Karnataka, creating 15,000 jobs, state's Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil said on Tuesday.

UK engineering giant Rolls-Royce is also exploring fresh investments in the state, the minister added, assuring that the government will fast-track clearances for these projects.

Patil was speaking at a reception hosted by the British Deputy High Commission to mark the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA). He said the pact is expected to boost bilateral trade by £25 billion annually and nearly double it to £90 billion by 2030, enabling duty-free access for 99% of Indian exports to the UK and 90% of UK exports to India.


"This would mean more affordable products, greater market access for businesses, and a surge in commerce benefiting consumers and industries in both countries," Patil said.

The minister added that other British firms such as BAE Systems, ARM, HSBC and Aviva already have a significant presence in Karnataka, employing about 30,000 people. Patil invited UK-based firms to leverage the state’s technology capabilities, robust infrastructure, and industry-friendly ecosystem.