US Pursues Comprehensive Trade Agreement with India, Affecting Agriculture

The United States is actively pursuing a comprehensive trade agreement with India, emphasizing the need to open India's agriculture sector and push for greater market access. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick highlighted the importance of a macro-level approach to integrate economic interests, while Indian officials express concerns about the potential impact on local farmers and industries. As India engages in similar talks with the EU and UK, it is crucial for the nation to navigate these negotiations carefully to protect its critical sectors, especially agriculture and automotive manufacturing. The EU's proposed Free Trade Agreement negotiations are set to advance, with India aiming for targeted collaborations in sectors like electric vehicle battery technology. However, there are fears that broad liberalization could disadvantage Indian manufacturers and lead to unfavorable terms in the face of EU demands. Both nations aim to double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030, indicating a significant shift in their economic relationship.