Indian farmers oppose trade agreement with the US

A number of farmers’ organisations, trade unions, and representatives from India’s fisheries, poultry, wine, and retail sectors have urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately suspend negotiations with the United States on a free trade agreement. They argue that the proposed terms could go against the interests of farmers, workers, and the country’s rural economy.

In their letter, the groups also demand a comprehensive parliamentary and public review of all existing and future free trade agreements. They call for greater transparency in negotiations and for the protection of agriculture, domestic trade, employment, and food sovereignty from deals they say are driven by large corporations.

The signatories note that India is reportedly close to concluding an interim trade agreement with the United States, which could later evolve into a full-scale free trade deal covering all sectors of the economy. In their view, tariff reductions or wider market access for U.S. products could increase pressure on domestic producers.

Particular concern has been raised over potential imports of subsidised U.S. agricultural goods. Industry bodies warn that shipments of corn, animal and poultry feed, soy products, and vegetable oils could weaken Indian producers of coconut, peanut, mustard, and other oilseed crops.

They also caution that any reduction in tariffs or increased imports of wine and spirits could negatively impact India’s domestic producers.

Tags: India, protests, USA