Piyush Goyal Denies Report of India Rejecting US Trade Deal

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday dismissed a Reuters report that India had rejected a fast-track interim trade deal with the United States, insisting negotiations are progressing well.

Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Goyal said the report was "factually incorrect" and that both sides remain committed to concluding a mutually beneficial agreement. He declined to specify a timeline for a final deal.

The denial follows weeks of speculation about the pace of trade talks between the world's two largest democracies. Washington has pushed for an early harvest agreement to boost bilateral trade, which exceeded $190 billion in 2023.

Goyal reiterated India's interest in a comprehensive pact that addresses market access and tariff concerns, rather than a limited interim arrangement. He said technical teams from both countries are scheduled to meet next month to continue discussions.

The minister's remarks come ahead of a planned visit by US Trade Representative Katherine Tai to India later this year, which is expected to focus on resolving outstanding trade issues.