Shivraj Chouhan calls the India-US trade deal historic, assuring zero-tariff access for agri exports while farmers stay protected.
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan on 07th Feb described the India–US trade deal as “historic and unprecedented”, saying it would give new momentum and direction to the Indian economy while fully safeguarding the interests of Indian farmers.
Addressing a press conference in Bhopal, Chouhan said the agreement symbolises diplomacy, development and dignity, and sends a clear message that India’s policy is based on commitment, not compromise. He stressed that the deal enhances India’s global standing and reflects the country’s emergence as a reliable and confident international partner.
The minister highlighted that Indian agricultural products will receive zero-tariff market access in the United States, while American farm products will not get similar concessions in India. He said US tariffs, earlier as high as 50 per cent on several items, have now been reduced to zero for products such as spices, tea, coffee, coconut and coconut oil, cashews, betel nuts, fruits including mangoes, bananas, guavas, kiwis, papayas and pineapples, mushrooms and select grains.
Chouhan noted that India’s agricultural exports stood at USD 4.45 billion in 2024–25, with spice exports rising 88 per cent. India already exports spices to nearly 200 global destinations, and the deal will open a large new market in the US, helping raise farmers’ incomes.
Reiterating that no product harmful to Indian farmers has been included, he said all sensitive items, including rice, wheat, corn, sugar, oilseeds, dairy, poultry, major fruits, pulses, ethanol and tobacco, have been kept completely out of the agreement. He added that US dairy products and major agricultural commodities will not be allowed entry into India, ensuring full protection for domestic farmers and markets.
The minister said the agreement would also create new opportunities for farmers, women and youth, while boosting sectors such as textiles, gems and jewellery, auto components, engineering goods and MSMEs. Reduced tariffs in textiles, now around 18 per cent compared to competing countries, will benefit exporters and cotton farmers alike.
Chouhan said India has completed nine FTAs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, including agreements with 27 countries, and more talks are underway. He said such agreements are key milestones in building an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat, with benefits flowing to farmers, workers, exporters and manufacturers as India moves towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Source: PIB
