India-US Trade Deal Standoff: No Concessions on Agriculture and GM Products

India and the United States are intensifying discussions over a bilateral trade agreement but remain at an impasse on critical issues such as agriculture and genetically modified goods. Sources indicate that despite ongoing negotiations, India stands firm in not providing duty concessions on these items to protect national interests.

With the sixth round of negotiations scheduled for late August, the countries are working towards concluding an initial phase of the trade deal by the fall of this year. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated India's priority to uphold the interests of stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding national trade practices amid global pressures.

Amidst these discussions, the trade landscape is further complicated by new U.S. tariffs impacting various countries, including India. This has injected a sense of urgency into the negotiations, as both nations aim to resolve disputes over tariffs affecting sectors ranging from agriculture to automobiles and technology.

(With inputs from agencies.)