India–U.S. Trade Pact Nears Completion as New Delhi Insists on Equitable Terms

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has confirmed that India and the United States are close to finalising a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement. However, he emphasised that India will sign the pact only if it is “fair, balanced, and equitable” for both nations.

Negotiations, which began earlier this year, have already undergone six rounds of discussions covering key issues including agricultural access, tariffs, digital trade, intellectual property, and market regulations. Goyal reiterated that India will not compromise the interests of farmers, small manufacturers, and the fisheries sector.

The development comes at a time when India is seeking stronger trade alignment with major global economies. Analysts believe the recently announced India–U.S. LPG import deal could pave the way for smoother negotiations by addressing concerns related to trade imbalances.

If concluded, the pact is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade, enhance regulatory cooperation, and expand access for services—an area where India has strong strategic interest.