India-US Trade Talks Hit Another Roadblock in Fifth Round; Dispute Over Agri-Duties Persists

The fifth round of India-US trade negotiations ended without resolution, as both sides failed to reach consensus on key issues—particularly import duties on agricultural and dairy products. India prioritized national interests.

Edited By: Lalit Sharma

Last Updated : 20 July 2025, 04:36 PM IST

TRADE DEAL

National News: India-US Trade Deal: The fifth round of talks held in the US from 14 to 17 July on the trade agreement between India and the US ended without any concrete result. The delegations of both the countries discussed tariffs, market access, and sensitive sectors, but no decisive agreement could be reached. On behalf of India, a delegation led by Special Secretary Rajesh Agarwal participated in the talks. The main obstacle was regarding the agriculture and dairy sector, on which the US wants an open market, while India does not agree with this.

According to media reports, America demands that its agricultural and dairy products should get low-duty or duty-free entry in the Indian market so that it can increase the reach of its products. However, India's stance is to protect the interests of local producers and farmers in these sectors. The government believes that if American products are given a free hand, it can harm the small- and medium-scale producers of the country.

National interest is paramount for India

Union Minister Piyush Goyal, while giving a statement on this issue, said that national interests are paramount for India. He clarified that India will not succumb to any kind of external pressure and will reach an agreement only through dialogue. Goyal also added that India places great emphasis on ensuring the global reach of its IT, pharmaceutical, and textile industries.

The final deal has not been finalized

Experts believe that the main reason for the delay in the deal is India's strategic vigilance and policy of protecting its domestic industries. At the same time, America wants to move forward in the direction of free trade. Talks between the two sides are likely to continue, but no final deal has been decided at the moment.

Analysis of the conclusions of the conversation

India will now analyze the results of the fifth round of talks and prepare its next strategy. However, it is clear that India does not want to enter into any hasty agreement and will not compromise its interests.