Proposed India-US Trade Deal Raises Concerns Among Indian Farmers

The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) national president, Gurnam Singh Charuni, expressed significant concerns regarding the proposed trade agreement between India and the United States. Speaking at a press conference, Charuni highlighted that the ongoing negotiations, which began in February 2025, are reportedly nearing completion. The discussions are set to continue in New Delhi on June 23-24, involving the US trade representative Jamieson Greer.

Charuni criticized the potential reduction or elimination of import duties on products such as cotton, sorghum, soybean oil, and orange juice. He argued that this move could expose Indian farmers to competition from American imports, which are heavily subsidized, thereby weakening domestic agriculture and causing economic distress in rural areas.

Further concerns were raised about the possible entry of American dairy, poultry, and genetically modified agricultural products into the Indian market. Charuni noted that any weakening of the minimum support price (MSP) procurement system could severely impact wheat, paddy, and edible oil producers, especially in the states of Punjab and Haryana.

Charuni also mentioned that India's MSP regime is under scrutiny at the World Trade Organisation (WTO). He cautioned against any compromise on public procurement, which could affect millions of farmers reliant on this system. In light of these issues, Charuni called for greater transparency from the government, urging it to disclose all trade agreement proposals and consult with stakeholders, including farmers and agricultural experts, before making a final decision.

In response to the proposed deal, Charuni announced plans for nationwide protests on June 23. He also mentioned a joint meeting of farmer, labour, and social organizations scheduled for June 25 at Kisan Bhawan, Chandigarh, to discuss the trade deal's potential impact and develop a collective strategy.