India's Dairy Sector Remains Protected in Trade Agreements

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that India's dairy sector will not receive duty concessions in any Free Trade Agreement, citing the livelihood issues of small farmers. Despite negotiations with countries like Switzerland, Norway, and Australia, dairy remains sensitive. Bilateral trade between India and Australia aims to reach USD 100 billion.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal declared on Wednesday that India will not offer duty concessions in its dairy sector under any Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Goyal underscored the sensitivity of the dairy industry, which impacts the livelihoods of small farmers, during a joint press conference with Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell in Adelaide.

Goyal explained that India has withheld duty concessions in the dairy sector, even with Switzerland and Norway under the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) pact signed in March. The same stance was reiterated during discussions with Australia.

India and Australia are engaged in widening the scope of their interim trade agreement, aiming to double their bilateral trade to USD 100 billion. Both ministers highlighted the importance of understanding sectoral sensitivities, with Farrell announcing new grants to boost cooperation between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)