New Delhi: Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it unequivocally clear that India will not rush into any trade agreement with the United States unless it is fully negotiated and aligns with the national interest. Emphasizing a firm policy approach, Goyal stated, “India does not take decisions under time pressure when it comes to trade agreements with any country.”
Speaking on the ongoing discussions surrounding a possible trade deal with the US, Goyal reiterated that the Indian government places national interest above all else. “National interest is our supreme policy. If a trade agreement meets that criterion, India is always open to doing business with developed nations,” he said.
The Minister also provided an update on India’s broader international trade engagements. He informed that India is actively negotiating Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with several countries and blocs, including the European Union, New Zealand, Oman, the US, Chile, and Peru. “The objective of such agreements is mutual benefit. A trade deal should always ensure a win-win situation for both countries involved,” Goyal noted.
When asked whether a provisional agreement with the US would be signed before July 9, Goyal firmly responded, “India does not commit to any agreement under a fixed timeline. We will proceed only when the deal is thoroughly prepared and serves the national interest.” He further clarified that, as of now, there is no trade-related meeting scheduled in Washington, D.C.
This statement reaffirms India’s cautious and strategic approach to global trade, highlighting the government’s emphasis on comprehensive dialogue and long-term economic planning.