No Harm to Farmers, Says Piyush Goyal on India-US Trade Deal

New Delhi: The government has assured that the recent trade deal with the United States safeguards the interests of both countries and will not harm Indian farmers. Speaking in the Lok Sabha amid opposition protests, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that the agreement also takes into account the concerns of the Indian dairy industry.

Goyal highlighted that the deal will promote ‘Make in India’ and create new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). “After nearly a year of negotiations, an agreement has been reached with the US. This deal will open avenues for SMEs and farmers alike. Its purpose is to boost Make in India, Design in India, and Innovate in India initiatives,” he said.

Agriculture and Dairy Protections Secured
The Commerce Minister added that throughout the negotiations, the Indian side ensured protection for the agriculture and dairy sectors. US President Donald Trump announced a reduction in reciprocal tariffs from 25% to 18%, which is lower than the tariffs imposed on India by several competing countries.

Government Priorities
Goyal described the agreement as a historic structural deal that strengthens India-US relations and supports India’s vision for development by 2047. “Protecting the needs of 1.4 billion Indians is the government’s top priority. To advance on the path of development, India must enhance its capabilities in energy, aviation, data centers, and nuclear power, sectors where the US is a global leader,” he stated.

Trade Potential
President Trump indicated that under the deal, India could import goods worth $500 billion from the US, covering sectors including energy, coal, technology, agriculture, and other products. While both sides have not issued a joint statement on the deal, the opposition has raised concerns, claiming that farmers’ interests may have been compromised.

The government, however, has reiterated that the deal is balanced, safeguards farmers, and promotes economic growth and industrial development across India.