Core Points - India and the US have reached a temporary trade agreement framework after a year of negotiations, with India asserting that the agreement protects its core agricultural interests, while domestic opposition views it as a compromise to the US [1][4] - The agreement includes provisions for India to lower tariffs on US industrial products and various food items, while the US will reduce its "reciprocal tariffs" on certain Indian goods from 25% to 18% [3][4] - The agreement aims to facilitate a bilateral trade deal, with plans for a formal signing in March [4] Trade Agreement Details - India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on US industrial products and multiple food and agricultural products, while the US will lower tariffs on some Indian goods [3] - India has committed to increasing imports from the US, targeting approximately $500 billion in energy products, aircraft, precious metals, technology products, and coking coal over the next five years [3] - The agreement also addresses non-tariff barriers, market access, economic security, and digital trade [3] Domestic Reactions - Indian officials, including Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, have praised the framework as beneficial for Indian exporters, particularly farmers and small businesses, claiming it opens a $30 trillion market [5] - However, the agreement has faced strong criticism from opposition parties and organizations in India, which argue it compromises farmers' interests and national sovereignty [5][6] - The "United Farmers Front" has condemned the agreement, warning of potential nationwide protests if it is signed, citing concerns over tariff imbalances favoring US agricultural products [6] Key Factors Influencing Agreement - Analysts suggest that India's ability to reduce imports of Russian oil and the protection of Indian farmers' interests will be crucial for the successful finalization of the agreement [7][8] - The US has indicated that if India continues to import Russian oil, it may reinstate tariffs, complicating negotiations [7] - The potential impact on Indian agriculture and the trade balance with the US is a significant concern, with warnings that increased imports could erase India's trade surplus with the US [8] Future Negotiations - The issue of Russian oil procurement remains a focal point for future negotiations, with India likely to seek a compromise that satisfies both the US and its own energy needs [9] - There is a belief that India may gradually reduce its Russian oil imports to meet US demands while maintaining a balance in its foreign relations [9]
印美临时贸易协议面临考验,印度国内质疑:该协议是向美国妥协的产物
Huan Qiu Shi Bao·2026-02-08 22:46