Piyush Goyal Vows to Protect Farmers in US Deal
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has assured that India’s sensitive economic sectors, particularly agriculture, will remain protected under the proposed trade agreement with the United States. Speaking at an event in New Delhi on Thursday, October 29, 2026, Goyal maintained that the government would not compromise the interests of Indian farmers, businesses or other domestic stakeholders during negotiations with Washington.
Piyush Goyal Assures Protection for Indian Farmers
Goyal expressed confidence that the agreement would strengthen India’s economic position while safeguarding sectors vulnerable to international competition. He said Indians would welcome the agreement once its complete terms became public.
The minister defended the government’s negotiating strategy, arguing that trade agreements should create opportunities based on comparative advantages rather than expose domestic industries to unfair competition.
However, agricultural organisations have raised concerns about potential tariff reductions on American farm products and their implications for Indian producers.
India-US Trade Agreement Nears First Phase
India and the United States announced a framework for a bilateral trade agreement in February 2026, but negotiations concerning its implementation remain ongoing.
Both countries are seeking improved market access while addressing disagreements over agricultural imports, tariffs and domestic industry protections.
Goyal criticised opposition to the proposed agreement before its complete provisions had been disclosed, maintaining that the government had successfully defended national economic interests in previous trade negotiations.
Goyal Defends India’s Decision to Reject RCEP
The minister also defended India’s 2019 decision to withdraw from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, arguing that participation could have adversely affected domestic manufacturing because of competition from Chinese imports.
He highlighted India’s expanding network of trade agreements and said the country was positioned to exceed $1 trillion in exports during the current financial year.
The final impact of the India-US agreement will depend on its published provisions, particularly the tariff concessions and safeguards covering sensitive industries.
