India's Piyush Goyal Emphasizes Trade Deal Rebalancing with US Post-Supreme Court Ruling
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New Delhi, Feb 27 (NationPress) - Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Friday that India is prepared to rebalance the proposed trade agreement with the United States if necessary to safeguard its interests, particularly following the US Supreme Court's decision to annul the tariff increases initiated by the Trump administration.
"In light of the changing circumstances regarding US tariffs, we will monitor the situation closely to ensure the best outcomes for India," Goyal stated during a media briefing.
"This is an evolving scenario. The Trump administration has made several comments; they possess various options, including the potential to raise tariffs to 15 percent next week. Ongoing discussions are taking place, and I previously mentioned that any significant changes may prompt us to rebalance the deal," he added.
The minister reminded attendees that the joint statement between India and the US indicates that a deal can be adjusted if conditions shift.
Additionally, he noted that trade talks with the United States are ongoing amidst these developments.
In reference to President Trump’s remarks following the Supreme Court ruling, Goyal mentioned, "There are numerous strategies the Trump administration can employ in this evolving situation; one being the implementation of a 10 percent tariff."
Despite these challenges, Goyal expressed optimism regarding the trade agreement with the US, highlighting the many positive aspects of the deal. "Let's observe how events unfold. International trade deals hinge on competitive advantages," he stated.
He reassured that sensitive sectors, particularly dairy and agriculture, are protected within the proposed agreement.
"No genetically modified foods will be permitted in India. Sectors such as dairy, maize, soybean, and poultry are exempt from the US trade agreement. We have successfully safeguarded the interests of our farmers and dairy producers," the minister affirmed.
Furthermore, Goyal asserted that despite global economic challenges, India's exports are expected to rise this year.
India and Washington have mutually agreed to postpone the official meeting regarding the interim trade agreement so both parties can consider the implications stemming from the Supreme Court's verdict that overturned the Trump-era tariff increases.
A three-day meeting planned for February 23, involving chief trade negotiators from both nations, will be rescheduled to a later date that works for both sides.