Piyush Goyal Says India–US Trade Pact Ensures Full Protection for Farmers

  • Feb. 16, 2026, 9:54 p.m.

New Delhi: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that the interests of farmers have been fully protected in the India–US trade agreement, rejecting allegations that the deal could adversely impact the agricultural sector.

 

Speaking at an event in the national capital, Mr. Goyal asserted that India has carefully safeguarded the interests of farmers, the dairy sector, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) while negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs). He noted that India has signed trade agreements with countries including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and the United States.

 

The Minister said that these agreements collectively cover 38 countries and represent nearly two-thirds of the global economy. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is advancing economic reforms in a mission mode to strengthen India’s global trade presence.

 

Responding to allegations made in a video shared by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the India–US trade agreement, Mr. Goyal dismissed the claims as misleading. In a social media post, he said that the individuals presented as farmers in the video were Congress workers and accused the Opposition of spreading misinformation to create fear among the farming community.

 

Mr. Goyal clarified that the agreement does not provide concessions on soybean meal and corn, and therefore poses no threat to domestic farmers. He further stated that India currently imports around 5.5 lakh tonnes of apples annually due to limited domestic production. Imports, he said, will be permitted below existing levels and subject to a minimum import price of ₹80 per kg along with a duty of ₹25 per kg.

 

The Minister reiterated that the government remains committed to protecting farmers’ interests while promoting overall economic growth and trade expansion.

Author : Rajdhani Delhi Representative

Rajdhani delhi representative

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