WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — Trade officials from Washington and New Delhi are meeting this week to restart formal negotiations aimed at a broader U.S.–India agreement.
The current round follows five earlier sessions this year and comes as both sides weigh tariffs, energy imports, and market access ahead of 2026 trade planning. India’s Commerce Ministry confirmed that Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal is leading the delegation, building on September meetings in Washington described as “constructive” but short of a breakthrough.
The talks resume under pressure from high U.S. tariffs — roughly 50 percent on some Indian imports — and Washington’s demand that India reduce its purchases of Russian oil. President Trump reiterated last week that existing duties will remain until those flows stop. Both governments have expressed optimism but caution that discussions will continue into late October before any deal is announced.
Agriculture remains one of the most sensitive areas. India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has said repeatedly that any agreement must protect farmers, fishermen, and small producers. U.S. negotiators are pressing for greater access in farm goods, processed foods, and biotechnology while India resists concessions that could disrupt its domestic market. Observers expect agriculture to anchor this week’s agenda alongside manufacturing and energy trade.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Talks highlight the widening role of agriculture in U.S.–India trade policy, though neither side appears ready for major concessions before tariff issues and oil imports are resolved.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Expert
Galynn Beer of Tidal Grow Agri-Science joined us to discuss challenges in fertility management, the benefits of Align-N, and what growers can expect at Commodity Classic next week.
February 20, 2026 01:26 PM
·
Tommy Roach with Nachurs Alpine Solutions discuss fertilizer decision-making, plant fertility strategies, and what farmers can learn at Commodity Classic.
February 20, 2026 12:05 PM
·
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Friday that imposing duties without Congressional authorization exceeds presidential powers. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss the potential trade and agriculture implications of the recent ruling.
February 20, 2026 10:09 AM
·
Fertilizer still consumes an unusually large share of crop value.
February 20, 2026 09:00 AM
·
FBN co-founder Charles Baron previews the upcoming Farmer2Farmer event and how technology and AI are shaping the industry, offering growers practical insights and farmer-led strategies for modern agriculture.
February 19, 2026 02:08 PM
·
The USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum highlights modest price support from tighter supplies across cotton, grains, dairy, livestock, and sugar into 2026.
February 19, 2026 01:48 PM
·
The global rice surplus outweighs tighter U.S. supplies, pressuring prices.
February 19, 2026 08:00 AM
·
A weaker dollar supports export demand and may strengthen crop prices.
February 19, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Smaller supplies could support cotton prices despite weak demand.
February 18, 2026 04:18 PM
·
