U.S.-India Trade Deal Protects Agriculture, Expands Market Access
The United States and India have reached an interim trade agreement that aims to protect sensitive agricultural and dairy sectors while expanding market access for various goods. According to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the deal ensures that key farm products such as maize, wheat, rice, and dairy items are safeguarded, thereby supporting farmer incomes in India. The agreement includes a reduction of reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18%, benefiting sectors like textiles, leather, and machinery. Additionally, the U.S. and India have committed to providing each other with preferential market access and addressing non-tariff barriers that affect bilateral trade. The deal also includes exemptions for India under section 232 on aircraft parts and tariff rate quotas on auto parts, which are expected to lead to export gains. 
