India Reaffirms Trade Sovereignty: No Tariff Concessions to the US, Rajya Sabha Informed

In a clear statement to the Rajya Sabha, the Indian government reaffirmed its stance on the ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, specifically regarding tariff reductions. Sunil Barthwal, the Commerce Secretary, clarified that while discussions with the U.S. are ongoing, India has not agreed to any tariff concessions as part of these talks. Barthwal addressed concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statements, which suggested that India had agreed to lower its tariffs significantly.

Barthwal emphasized that India’s trade policy is designed to ensure fairness and reciprocity in international trade. India’s tariffs, according to Barthwal, are not punitive but are intended to protect vital sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and textiles. These sectors, Barthwal argued, are key to India’s economic stability and cannot be sacrificed for short-term trade gains.

The Centre’s response in Parliament was a direct refutation of Trump’s claims that India had agreed to substantial tariff reductions in exchange for trade concessions. Barthwal reiterated that while India is open to reducing tariffs in certain areas, these reductions would need to be part of a broader trade agreement that benefits both nations equally.

In his address, Barthwal also discussed the broader context of U.S.-India trade relations, noting that both nations share mutual economic interests. However, he stressed that India would not bow to external pressure and would maintain its trade sovereignty in the face of international demands.

Barthwal’s statement in Rajya Sabha reinforced the government’s position that trade negotiations should always be based on fairness, transparency, and respect for national interests. India, he concluded, will continue to engage in trade discussions with the U.S. but would do so on its own terms.