Piyush Goyal Denies Report of India Rejecting US Trade Deal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday called a Reuters report 'factually incorrect' that said India had turned down a fast-track, interim trade agreement with the United States in hopes of securing more favorable terms. He insisted that negotiations between the two countries are proceeding normally and remain on schedule.

Goyal made the remarks during a press conference in New Delhi, responding to the report that cited unnamed sources claiming India had rebuffed the proposed interim deal. The minister did not specify which aspects of the report were inaccurate but reiterated that both sides are engaged constructively.

The denial comes amid ongoing trade discussions between India and the US, which have been working to resolve tariff disputes and expand market access. The two nations have been exploring a limited trade package ahead of a broader agreement, with officials from both sides meeting regularly.

Goyal's clarification aims to reassure businesses and investors that the trade relationship remains stable. He emphasized that the Indian government is committed to reaching a mutually beneficial outcome and that no deal has been rejected.

The minister's statement did not provide a timeline for the conclusion of the talks, but he expressed confidence that the ongoing negotiations would yield positive results for both countries.