India–US Trade Pact Likely to Boost Indian Exports

06-Feb-2026 11:51 AM

New Delhi: The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has emphasized that the bilateral trade agreement between India and the United States will not adversely affect the interests of the Indian agriculture and dairy sectors.

Instead, it will help increase exports of several Indian products, including rice, spices, and textiles. The US has already announced a reduction in customs duties on Indian products, setting them at 18 percent. According to the Agriculture Minister, increased exports of textile garments will boost the income of Indian cotton farmers.

The Agriculture Minister stated that the government has not opened up any market that would be detrimental to Indian farmers. According to the Minister, India remains the world's largest exporter of rice, shipping large quantities to many countries, including the US.

The country exported rice worth approximately ₹63,000 crore, including to the US. The reduction in tariffs will make Indian products such as rice, spices, textiles, and cashews more competitive in the US market, leading to increased demand.

The full details of the bilateral trade agreement will be revealed in due course, but the main point is that the interests of the farmers have not been compromised. Farmers are the providers of food, and therefore, it is the government's responsibility to protect them in every way.