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
Lamb prices have seen a surprising surge driven by a tight supply and increasing demand in non-traditional markets.
September 23, 2025 12:40 PM
·
Farmers should watch for soybean export rebounds with harvest, while corn and wheat shipments remain strong and sorghum demand struggles.
September 23, 2025 11:54 AM
·
Rollins says the new trade relationship with Taiwan, which is committed to buying a significant amount of U.S. soy, could not come at a better time for farmers facing financial strain.
September 23, 2025 11:06 AM
·
The three-point plan was announced during remarks at the annual meeting of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.
September 23, 2025 10:44 AM
·
Higher tariffs may shield some U.S. crops but risk retaliation, lost markets, and higher costs for growers. The WTO disputes highlight the fragile balance between trade policy, farm exports, and input supply chains.
September 22, 2025 12:39 PM
·
USMEF CEO Dan Halstrom joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report for his analysis on the U.S.-Taiwan trade agreement, which includes big bucks for U.S. Beef.
September 22, 2025 12:30 PM
·
Record U.S. sorghum crop faces weak demand as China slashes imports, while corn farmers warn of rising costs, shrinking margins, and global market pressures.
September 22, 2025 11:46 AM
·
Dairy farmers are expected to face strong output and export gains, but lower prices and tighter margins will persist into next year.
September 22, 2025 10:52 AM
·
Producers and processors should watch trade policy closely as tariff impacts ripple through seafood markets.
September 19, 2025 03:15 PM
·
