Congress Calls Indo-US Trade Pact ‘Surrender’, Alleges Deal Betrays India’s Farmers And MSMEs

The Congress on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the proposed Indo-US trade pact, calling it "not a deal but a surrender" of India's interests and self-respect.

The Opposition party alleged that the agreement would harm farmers, small businesses and the country's economic independence.

Addressing a press conference, Congress leader and head of the party's media and publicity department Pawan Khera said the pact would turn India into a "dumping ground" for American products and weaken domestic industries.

Congress Alleges Deal Favors US Over India

Khera claimed the trade arrangement was not a balanced agreement between equals but a compromise that undermines India's long-standing economic interests. According to him, the pact would adversely impact farmers, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the middle class.

"This is not a deal in India's interest. It is a surrender that compromises our self-esteem and the interests of our people," Khera said, alleging that the agreement would open Indian markets to a flood of American goods without adequate safeguards.

He warned that domestic agriculture and small industries could face serious challenges if cheaper imports from the United States enter Indian markets in large volumes. Khera also claimed that the move could significantly increase India's import bill in the coming years without corresponding benefits.

Remarks Come After Government's Clarification

The Congress criticism came soon after Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that India has not offered any duty concessions on dairy products under the agreement and that several Indian goods, including agricultural items, would enjoy zero reciprocal tariffs in the United States.

However, Khera questioned the government's claims, alleging that the full details of imports expected from the US had not been made public. He said the government had highlighted items India would not import but had not disclosed the complete list of goods likely to enter the country.

The Congress leader also criticised the government's handling of trade negotiations, claiming decisions were being taken in a manner that did not adequately protect domestic interests. He argued that a trade agreement should be based on equal negotiation and mutual benefit.

Political Row Intensifies Over Trade Pact

The Opposition's remarks have added a political dimension to the ongoing debate around the Indo-US trade agreement. Congress leaders have demanded greater transparency and clarity on the terms of the pact, particularly regarding its impact on agriculture, small industries and domestic markets.

The government, meanwhile, has maintained that the agreement will benefit Indian exporters and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

With both sides presenting contrasting views, the proposed trade pact is likely to remain a key political and economic issue in the coming days as discussions over its potential impact continue.