Mumbai, February 14 – Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal dismissed the Opposition’s claims on Saturday that the India-US interim trade deal harms domestic interests.
He asserted that the agreement was negotiated from a "strong position" as a $4 trillion economy and specifically protected the 'Aatmanirbhar' (self-reliant) sectors.
He claimed that the deal was structured to balance consumer interests and export-led growth without ceding sovereignty.
Referring to the internal agreement as "fair and balanced", Union Minister Goyal said that the goal to purchase $500 billion in US goods (energy, aircraft, technology) over five years is an "intent", not a binding obligation, driven by India's actual commercial needs.
"The US has reduced reciprocal tariffs on Indian exports from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. This puts India at a distinct advantage over competitors like China (35 per cent) and Bangladesh/Vietnam (20 per cent). Several key Indian sectors will now enjoy zero tariffs," he added.
He also said that "sensitive" agricultural products like rice, wheat, corn, millets, and dairy have been explicitly excluded from the deal to ensure no negative impact on domestic producers, adding that they remain protected.
"No duty concessions were given to the US for dairy, poultry, meat, wheat, rice, maize, and soy," the Union Minister added.
"India only allows selective access for items it needs or doesn't produce in surplus, such as walnuts, pistachios, and certain wines with a minimum import price," he said.
Union Minister Goyal projected a "huge and wonderful future" for the Indian cotton industry, saying that the trade deal will expand demand rather than hurt growers.
"India will benefit from a 'yarn forward' mechanism (similar to concessions enjoyed by Bangladesh). This allows Indian garments to be exported to the US at zero duty if they use specific yarns."
Union Minister Goyal noted that India expects to import nearly $100 billion worth of Boeing aircraft, engines, and spare parts over the next five years.
He said that this boost in the aviation sector would improve connectivity in remote areas and potentially lead to lower airfares for Indian citizens.
On the Union Budget for 2026-27, Union Minister Goyal said it is a "blueprint for Viksit Bharat by 2047".
He described the budget as a "performance-oriented" document focused on three pillars of "duty" (Kartavya): economic growth, self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta), and infrastructure.
"The budget is designed to transform India into a developed nation by its centenary (100 years) of independence," he said.
He emphasised the significant push for infrastructure expansion to lower logistic costs and boost manufacturing.
He invoked the mantra of "Nagrik Devo Bhava" (The citizen is God), saying the budget reflects a collective resolve for inclusive development.
