New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday said a long-awaited trade agreement between India and the United States could “very possibly” materialise soon, while cautioning that diplomacy is unpredictable and India will safeguard the interests of its workers, farmers and middle class. Speaking at the HT Leadership Summit in conversation with NDTV’s Rahul Kanwal, the minister said negotiations will be hard but pointed to a potential landing point for both nations.
India maintains steady communication with Washington
Jaishankar rejected claims of communication gaps between New Delhi and Washington, stressing that continuous engagement is essential to bridge trade disagreements. He called trade the “most significant issue” in India–US ties and expressed confidence that both sides could reach a reasonable settlement.
“It’s something that has gone through multiple rounds. We believe there can be a landing point for our respective trade interests,” he said. However, he added that diplomacy can shift unexpectedly: “You’re always optimistic, but suddenly things can turn around. It can turn around in one weekend.”
Agriculture and GM crop concerns remain key hurdles
Major sticking points include American demands for wider access to Indian agricultural markets, particularly in corn, soybeans, wheat, ethanol, fruits and nuts. India has been firm that such access crosses its “red lines”.
A core challenge is that the US relies heavily on genetically modified (GM) corn and soybeans, while India bans the import of GM food crops due to concerns over health and environmental impact. New Delhi has repeatedly upheld its precautionary approach to GM food.
The dairy sector remains equally sensitive. Millions of small and landless farmers depend on dairy to stabilise incomes during erratic monsoons and shifting crop cycles. India has therefore resisted opening dairy markets to foreign competition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently said that India will not compromise on the interests of its farmers.
Trump’s unpredictable style influences negotiations
Jaishankar noted that every US president has a distinct diplomatic style, but President Donald Trump’s approach has been radically different, especially in how he views America’s trade deficit with India. This, he said, introduces a level of unpredictability into the negotiation process.
Despite this, India maintains that talks must prioritise fairness and long-term economic stability.
Deal possible but timeline uncertain
While acknowledging the potential for rapid progress, Jaishankar stopped short of predicting when a deal would be finalised. “If you ask me if it could happen soon, my answer would be sure, very possible. If you say maybe it takes a little longer… maybe. I don’t know,” he said.
He reiterated that India will be “extremely judicious”, refusing to concede on issues that could harm domestic sectors.
Conclusion
Jaishankar’s remarks signal cautious optimism as India navigates complex trade negotiations shaped by agricultural sensitivities, domestic economic priorities and shifting US political dynamics. A deal remains within reach — but only under terms that protect India’s fundamental interests.