Piyush Goyal, US Trade Representative Discuss India-US Interim Trade Deal

Goyal said on X that the two sides held a productive discussion on an interim pact under the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement. They also exchanged views on the discussions taking place at the G20 Trade Ministers' Meeting, which is being held under the US presidency.

During his engagements on the sidelines of the meeting, Goyal also met Mexico's Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard to discuss ways to expand trade and investment ties between India and Mexico.

The minister separately held discussions with Poland's Minister of Finance and Economy Andrzej Domański on strengthening bilateral trade and investment. The talks also covered opportunities that could emerge from the proposed India-European Union free trade agreement, Goyal said.

Goyal also met Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and Brazil's Minister of Development, Industry, Trade and Services Marcio Elias Rosa during the G20 gathering.

The Milwaukee meeting brought together trade ministers from major economies for discussions on bilateral trade, investment and broader global trade issues.

Goyal also addressed a G20 session on the theme 'Weaponization of Food through Coercive Trade Action'. He said food should remain a source of security, stability and cooperation.

He stressed the importance of distinguishing between the weaponisation of food supply chains and legitimate measures adopted by countries to address domestic policy priorities and food-security requirements.

Goyal's discussions in the US come as India and the United States continue negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement, including efforts to finalise an interim arrangement.

The Commerce Ministry had earlier said that Goyal's US engagements would focus on advancing a balanced and mutually beneficial India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement and concluding an interim deal in line with the Joint Statement issued on February 7.