Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphatically stated that India achieved “absolutely no compromise” on sensitive domestic sectors, including agriculture, dairy, and sugar, during the India-US trade deal negotiations. Speaking to India Today, Goyal described the agreement as a “win-win” for India, attributing this success to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance on prioritizing and securing respect for national sensitivities.
Goyal offered specific insights into India’s protective stance. He clarified that while India has imported significant quantities of soya bean oil since 2004, the deal only allows a quota for soya bean oil, explicitly forbidding raw soya bean imports. This policy effectively protects domestic agriculture. He further confirmed that crucial products like maize, genetically modified (GM) items, and staple cereals such as rice and wheat, along with dairy and sugar, which are highly sensitive for India, saw no concessions.
The Minister elaborated that any approved concessions were solely for the benefit of Indian consumers. For instance, permitting specific fruit imports, such as US apples, offers superior quality options compared to other existing sources. This strategic approach applies broadly to industrial goods and technology, thereby expanding consumer choices and enhancing overall service availability in various sectors.
Goyal underlined the principle of mutual respect inherent in the negotiations. He cited the US’s high import duties on tobacco, which India accepts without objection, seeking alternative export markets instead. This reciprocal understanding, he noted, streamlined discussions and fostered international trust. The Minister concluded that the trade agreement strengthens India’s standing as a reliable partner, capable of securing equitable deals while contributing to global economic collaboration, truly a “win-win” for the nation.