Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday described the recently concluded India–United States trade agreement as the most advantageous deal India could have secured, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and diplomatic rapport with US President Donald Trump.

Goyal said the agreement would deliver broad economic benefits across multiple sectors, including agriculture, micro and small enterprises, manufacturing, textiles, IT, and leather industries. He claimed the pact strengthens India’s global economic standing and supports farmers, women entrepreneurs, and small business owners.

According to the minister, the successful conclusion of the trade pact followed months of intensive negotiations between Indian and American officials. He asserted that the outcome reflects India’s growing influence and negotiating power on the world stage.

Addressing criticism over the United States announcing the deal before India, Goyal explained that the timeline was influenced by Washington’s rollback of reciprocal tariffs imposed on Indian goods. He noted that the tariff reductions — reportedly lowered from nearly 50% to around 18% — required a US-led announcement, and added that a formal joint statement would follow once technical formalities are completed.

Responding to Opposition claims that Indian farmers and dairy producers could be adversely affected, Goyal insisted that these sensitive sectors had been fully safeguarded. He also drew parallels to India’s decision to stay out of the RCEP trade bloc, saying the government has consistently protected domestic interests.

The minister further criticised Opposition leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of deliberately obstructing parliamentary proceedings when the government sought to explain the trade agreement in the Lok Sabha. He said the disruptions undermined meaningful debate on an issue of national economic importance.

Goyal reiterated that the deal reflects sustained diplomatic engagement and strategic policymaking, describing it as a strong boost to India’s economy and international credibility.