New Delhi

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday assured the Lok Sabha that India’s sensitive sectors, including agriculture and dairy, have been fully protected under the proposed India–US trade deal.

Goyal said tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods would be reduced to 18 per cent from the earlier level of 50 per cent, placing India among the countries facing the lowest tariff rates compared to its competitor nations.

“India has been successful in protecting the agricultural and dairy sectors,” he said, adding that the agreement would strengthen initiatives such as Make in India and Design in India and contribute to making the country self-reliant.

The minister said labour-intensive sectors would see a significant boost in exports following the tariff reduction, while the deal would also open up new opportunities for skilled professionals and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Goyal informed the House that both sides are currently working on completing the technical processes, and an official announcement will be made soon.

Highlighting energy security as a top government priority, he said India requires imports in critical sectors such as aviation and nuclear energy, where the US is a major global player.

READ MORE: Teacher Irfana Tabassum revives defunct schools in Kashmir

“The agreement is in the national interest of India,” he said.