India and US Reach Agreement to Settle Six Trade Disputes at WTO; Delhi to Lift Retaliatory Customs Duties

New Delhi, June 23, 2023 - India and the United States have successfully resolved six longstanding trade disputes through negotiations at the World Trade Organization (WTO). This breakthrough agreement, announced today, marks a significant step towards enhancing economic cooperation and strengthening bilateral trade ties between the two nations.

After extensive discussions, Indian and US trade officials have reached a consensus to settle the six trade disputes that have been impeding the smooth flow of goods and services between the two countries. The resolution of these issues is expected to pave the way for increased trade and investment opportunities, benefiting businesses and consumers on both sides.

As part of the agreement, India has committed to removing retaliatory customs duties on a range of US goods, a move that will create a more conducive environment for American exporters. The retaliatory tariffs were imposed by India in response to the US imposing additional levies on steel and aluminum imports from several countries, including India, under the previous administration.

The removal of these customs duties will have a positive impact on various sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and information technology, where US exporters have been facing barriers. With the elimination of these trade barriers, American businesses will be able to regain a competitive edge in the Indian market.

In return, the United States has agreed to address India's concerns related to certain agricultural and pharmaceutical products. The agreement includes measures to facilitate increased market access for Indian agricultural exports and address issues related to intellectual property rights in the pharmaceutical sector. These measures aim to create a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade environment.

Both countries have expressed their commitment to further deepen their economic engagement and explore avenues for collaboration in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, digital economy, and advanced manufacturing. Strengthening ties in these sectors is seen as crucial for fostering innovation and driving sustainable economic growth.

The resolution of the trade disputes comes at a time when India and the United States are seeking to strengthen their strategic partnership and expand bilateral cooperation in various areas, including security, defense, and technology. The settlement of these longstanding issues will undoubtedly contribute to the overall positive trajectory of the bilateral relationship.

The successful resolution of these trade disputes is not only a testament to the constructive dialogue between India and the United States but also highlights the importance of multilateral institutions like the WTO in resolving trade conflicts. It demonstrates the commitment of both countries to the rules-based international trading system and their willingness to find mutually acceptable solutions.

As the agreement takes effect, businesses and consumers in both countries can look forward to a more predictable and stable trade environment, fostering increased investment and economic growth. The resolution of these disputes sets a positive precedent for future trade negotiations between India and the United States and serves as a testament to the power of diplomatic engagement in overcoming trade barriers.