‘We don’t negotiate at gunpoint’: Piyush Goyal on India-US Trade Talks

In a firm message during the ongoing trade discussions with the United States, Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that India will not be coerced into any agreement that doesn’t serve the nation’s interests. His statement follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent decision to pause tariffs on Indian imports for 90 days a move viewed as a brief opportunity for both nations to finalize a long-pending bilateral trade agreement.

“We have said this many times we don’t negotiate under pressure,” Goyal told the media when questioned about the current status of the India-US bilateral trade agreement (BTA).

He acknowledged that deadlines can help accelerate talks but stressed that rushing through any process without safeguarding national interests would be unwise.

India and the U.S. are currently engaged in sector-specific virtual negotiations after establishing a broad framework of terms of reference (ToRs) during in-person discussions in New Delhi. These ToRs are designed to support a wide-ranging, multi-sector trade deal that addresses tariff and non-tariff barriers, enhances market access, and strengthens supply chain resilience.

Goyal also reiterated that all of India’s trade negotiations are driven by the “India First” principle and are aligned with the country’s long-term development goals, including the vision for a developed India by 2047.

The initial in-person talks took place from March 26 to 29 in New Delhi, led by Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Brendan Lynch and India’s Additional Secretary Rajesh Agrawal. Officials characterized the discussions as “friendly and cordial,” with both sides aiming to reach a preliminary agreement by September. Follow-up meetings have since continued virtually to work through specific sectoral issues.

Although the full content of the ToRs remains confidential under a non-disclosure agreement, sources suggest they allow significant room for a comprehensive trade deal.

On Friday, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar hinted at New Delhi’s urgency to wrap up the trade negotiations, stating that both sides have agreed to work toward a practical, mutually acceptable solution. “This isn’t an open-ended process,” he said, referring to the need for timely resolution.

In a noteworthy move, the U.S. has temporarily suspended an additional 16% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods—10% of which was globally applied starting April 2. This suspension is in effect until July 9, 2025, offering both nations a strategic timeframe to finalize critical elements of the deal.