India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with US Ambassador Sergio Gor and Senator Steve Daines on Monday to discuss trade issues and ways to improve economic relations between the two countries. The talks focused on resolving trade tensions and advancing ongoing negotiations for a trade agreement.
The meeting comes after the US imposed higher import duties on several Indian goods, including a 50% tariff on some items and a 25% tariff linked to India’s purchase of Russian crude oil. These duties have affected trade, making discussions with US officials important for both sides.
Goyal called the meeting “productive” on social media, highlighting the friendly and cooperative relationship with the US. Ambassador Gor emphasized that both countries are working to conclude trade talks that benefit both sides.
A major topic of discussion was agricultural trade, especially pulses like peas. Senator Daines, from Montana, a key US pulse-producing state, along with Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, urged the US administration to secure favorable terms for American farmers. India is the world’s largest consumer of pulses, and access for US producers is a key issue in trade negotiations.
The talks also covered other areas of cooperation, including technology, investment, and supply chains. Both countries expressed a commitment to continue discussions and work toward stronger economic ties.
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