By
New Update
/connect-gujarat-english/media/media_files/2025/09/27/img_6595-2025-09-27-15-05-52.jpeg)
Follow Us
India is exploring the purchase of US corn for ethanol production, along with increased energy imports, as part of fresh proposals in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States.
The discussions aim to conclude a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) by this fall.
New Delhi has also pressed Washington to lift the 25 per cent additional tariffs imposed as a penalty for Indian imports of Russian crude oil, which the US claims is funding the war in Ukraine.
The US has been encouraging India to increase imports of American soybean and corn. India, however, has resisted, citing concerns over genetically modified (GM) crops entering the food chain.
Officials have emphasised that protecting domestic farmers and preventing GM products from entering the market remain key priorities for the Indian side.
In August, India exported goods worth $6.86 billion to the US, while imports were valued at $3.6 billion, according to government data.
According to reports, the talks are progressing on schedule, with both sides aiming to meet the fall deadline, although the date and venue for the next round of negotiations have not yet been finalised.
Discussions are expected to continue in phases, with officials indicating that both parties remain committed to the process and to achieving an early conclusion of the trade pact.
During his visit to the US earlier this week, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and US ambassador-designate to India, Sergio Gor.
This marked the first in-person engagement since the imposition of the 25 per cent punitive tariffs on August 27, which, combined with a previous reciprocal tariff, bring the total to 50 per cent.
An Indian delegation led by Rajesh Agarwal also met with their counterparts as part of the same visit.
Latest Stories