Piyush Goyal counters Opposition's big charge on India-US trade deal: 'Trump announced deal because...'

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday, responding to why the trade deal was first announced by US President Donald Trump, said the United States had communicated the agreement first as it was lowering reciprocal tariffs.

“US tweeted first because they had levied reciprocal tariffs and they had to lower it so it is natural since they had to lower tariffs President Trump had to inform it,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Congress party has raised strong concerns over the newly announced India–US trade deal, asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to disclose full details and clarify how the agreement will impact Indian farmers, traders and domestic industry.

The minister said the recent India–US trade agreement marked a significant step forward for bilateral relations and India’s economic future.

Explaining the sequence of announcements, Goyal reiterated that the US decision to reduce tariffs necessitated the initial communication from Washington.

Goyal also expressed appreciation for US President Donald Trump, crediting him for acknowledging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s relationship with Washington. “I want to thank Donald Trump, who respected PM Modi's friendship,” he said.

Emphasising the broader implications of the agreement, the minister said ties between the two countries would continue to deepen. “Going forward, US-India ties will improve,” Goyal said, adding, “India, US ties will strengthen further, and ensure a bright future.”

Calling the agreement more than just a commercial arrangement, Goyal said, “The trade deal is a step forward for India's bright future.” He further described it as a reflection of the country’s growth trajectory, saying, “This isn't just a trade deal but a sign of India's great future and faster economic growth.”

India-US trade deal

India and the United States have reached a trade agreement that will see Washington lower reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent, US President Donald Trump said on Monday following a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Modi later welcomed the development, saying the reduction would benefit Indian manufacturing and exports.

“Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement,” PM Modi said.