India Holds Firm: Piyush Goyal Affirms No Compromise on Farmers in US Trade Talks

Indias Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, has reiterated that New Delhi will not compromise the interests of its farmers, dairy producers, or workers while finalising trade agreements with the United States.

Speaking at a conference, Mr Goyal emphasised Indias commitment to securing a fair, equitable, and balanced trade deal, but "not at any cost", underscoring the paramount importance of protecting the nations 140 crore citizens.

This firm stance comes as US President Donald Trump recently indicated that both Washington and New Delhi are "pretty close" to sealing a new trade deal, calling it a "fair deal for everyone".

However, the relationship has been complex, marked by previous tariff hikes by the US, partly attributed to Indias imports of Russian oil. While talks have progressed through five rounds, sensitive issues such as agricultural tariffs, technology exports, and digital trade remain unresolved.

Both countries are driven by strategic interests, with the US seeking to diversify supply chains and India aiming for greater market access for its goods and services.