Intro: He said the sensitive sectors of the country, like agriculture and dairy, are completely protected in the India-US trade deal.

New Delhi

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said the India-US trade deal supports exports while protecting sensitive domestic sectors.

He told the Lok Sabha that India and the United States are complementary economies and both gain from deeper trade ties. Talks on a bilateral trade agreement began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US visit in February 2025 and continued for nearly a year. The deal was announced after a phone call between Modi and US President Donald Trump on February 2.

Goyal said negotiators from both sides protected important areas such as agriculture and dairy. At the same time, they ensured better market access and lower tariffs than those faced by competing countries. This, he said, will improve India’s export competitiveness, especially for labour intensive and manufacturing sectors.

The minister added that the agreement will open new opportunities for MSMEs, skilled workers, and industries by easing access to advanced technologies. He said the partnership supports India’s goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Goyal also spoke on energy imports, saying energy security for India’s population remains the top priority. He said cooperation with the US in energy, aviation, data centres, and nuclear power is natural. Tariffs on Indian goods have been reduced

‘Agri, dairy completely protected’

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal told the Lok Sabha that India’s farmers’ interests are protected in the India-US trade deal, as agriculture and dairy are excluded. He said sensitive sectors were safeguarded while creating opportunities for MSMEs, skilled workers, and industry, and ensuring energy security for 140 crore Indians. The deal will ease access to advanced technologies and support Make, Design, and Innovate in India. His remarks came amid opposition protests that disrupted House proceedings