The India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement ensures strong safeguards to protect the interests of Indian farmers and domestic producers. It marks a transformative moment in trade relations between both countries.
It also expands export opportunities through duty access for several farm and processed food products. India currently maintains a trade surplus of over 1.3 billion dollars in agricultural trade with the US. The new agreement is expected to further consolidate India’s position as a net agricultural exporter by providing enhanced market access and tariff stability. India’s approach expands market access and creates additional export opportunities through a three-pillar framework, ensuring that trade remains complementary to domestic priorities rather than disruptive. Under this agreement, forestry-linked products and others have been placed under zero reciprocal tariff.
These include vegetable plaiting materials, vegetable waxes, vegetable saps, bleached beeswax, bamboo shoots and various nuts. The move is expected to strengthen income streams for forest-dependent and tribal communities, while promoting agroforestry and allied rural activities. With reduced tariffs, improved market access, and safeguards for sensitive products, farmers benefit from stable domestic markets alongside growing export potential, ensuring strong economic gains under India’s new trade partnership.
