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Key Points

India and the US are actively negotiating agricultural terms in their bilateral trade agreement. The talks focus on balancing market access while protecting Indian farmers' interests. Both nations aim to conclude the first phase by late 2025. The government emphasizes safeguarding food security throughout the negotiations.

Key Points: India US Discuss Agriculture in Bilateral Trade Deal Says Thakur

  • India-US trade talks focus on agriculture and dairy market access
  • Discussions aim to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers
  • Food security and farmer interests remain top priorities
  • First phase of agreement targeted for late 2025
2 min read

India-US actively discussing agriculture sector for bilateral trade agreement: MoS Ramnath Thakur

India and the US negotiate agricultural market access in bilateral trade talks, prioritizing farmer welfare and food security.

"The government attaches utmost importance to protecting and promoting the welfare of our farmers - Piyush Goyal"

New Delhi August 5

India is actively involved in the discussions on the India-USA Bilateral Trade Agreement, which aims at expanding trade and investment and deepening the US-India trade relationship to promote growth that ensures fairness, national security and job creation, especially in the labour-intensive sector, including agricultural products.

According to Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today said that the ongoing discussions are focussed on how to take an integrated approach to strengthen and deepen bilateral trade by mutually increasing market access, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and deepening supply chain integration.

Further, the livelihood interests of our farmers and requirements of food security have always been paramount for the Government while negotiating trade agreements with our international partners, including the US.The remarks have significance as the two sides could not conclude due to the American demand to get comprehensive access in the Indian agriculture and dairy sector.

In March 2025, India and the US started talks for a balanced and mutually beneficial Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The goal of this was to finish the first stage of the Agreement by October-November 2025.Speaking on the BTA in Lok Sabha, Piyush Goyal on July 31 informed that there have been many virtual meetings between the two sides.

"The government is examining the implications of recent developments. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is engaged with all stakeholders to gather their feedback and assess the situation," Goyal added.

"The government attaches utmost importance to protecting and promoting the welfare of our farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, and all sections of industry. We will take all necessary steps to secure our national interest," Goyal added.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone working in agri-exports, this could be transformative if done right. But we need strict quality standards - American GMO crops shouldn't compromise our organic farming traditions. Hope the negotiators are being tough!
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Ananya R
Dairy sector needs special protection 🐄. Amul and other cooperatives are the backbone of rural India. American dairy giants with their subsidies will destroy our small farmers. Government better not compromise on this!
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Vikram M
Good to see focus on reducing non-tariff barriers. Our basmati rice and mangoes face so many unnecessary restrictions in US markets. Time for fair play - if they want our market, we should get equal access there too.
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Karthik V
While the intent is good, I'm concerned about implementation. Remember what happened with WTO agreements? Our negotiators need to be extra careful this time. Maybe involve farmer unions in discussions directly?
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Priya S
This could be great for organic farmers like me! 🌱 If we get proper access to US health-conscious consumers at fair prices, it can transform rural economies. But need cold chain infrastructure improvements first.

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