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Commerce minister Piyush Goyal outlined the two pillars of the negotiations: one, Viksit Bharat, and two, Atmanirbhar
No fear, no pressure—the government has made it clear that when it comes to dealing with the United States on trade tariffs, this will be the mantra. Commerce minister Piyush Goyal outlined the two pillars of the negotiations: one, Viksit Bharat, and two, Atmanirbhar.
The US negotiating team is expected to arrive for a scheduled meeting on August 25. While New Delhi aims for a favourable deal with one of its biggest trade partners, it has made clear to American negotiators that India does not make deals under pressure or deadlines.
Several reasons support the government’s confidence, as highlighted by the commerce minister. India is a trillion-dollar growing economy and has risen to be the world’s fifth-largest. This growth has captured the attention of global economies and economic experts, giving India a strong bargaining position. Additionally, the recently concluded trade agreement with the United Kingdom sends a strong message to the US and the world: India will negotiate deals that align with its national interest.
Even regarding oil, India refuses to succumb to American pressure. Despite Trump imposing a 10% penalty for buying Russian oil, India has made it clear that it will buy from the supplier offering the best rate to benefit consumers. The ministry of external affairs echoed this stance, stating, “In securing our energy needs, we are guided by what is on offer in the markets and by the prevailing global circumstances."
According to government sources, Trump has also offered low tariffs to Pakistan and Bangladesh, but this does not concern India, as their trade is negligible. India remains powerful, strong, and resilient. Unlike other heads of state who have sought to persuade the American president to reduce tariffs, the Indian side has refused to compromise. In upcoming meetings with American negotiators, Indian representatives will firmly state their positions: no concessions in the agro sector, no easy access for American products to Indian markets, no GM foods, and no harm to the labour-intensive sector. The government believes American consumers could suffer from these stances since Indian products have flooded the market. Moreover, Tim Cook, the Apple CEO, has publicly praised Indian manpower for its unmatched excellence.
With this high stance, the commerce minister has made it clear that India has nothing to worry about.
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