<a title="India US Trade Talks" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/india/trade-talks-restart-as-us-envoy-lands-in-delhi/19380" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India</a> has signalled a cautious stance on international trade agreements, stating it will not rush into deals following unilateral tariffs imposed by the <a title="US trade Tariffs" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/us-diplomacy-shifts-could-strain-india-trade/18468" target="_blank" rel="noopener">United States </a>on Indian exports. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasised that New Delhi views trade pacts as long-term partnerships founded on mutual trust.
Speaking at the Berlin Global Dialogue during an official visit, Goyal noted that India will reject any conditions from partner countries that restrict its economic choices. "India will not sign any trade deal in a hurry," he said, referencing European concerns over New Delhi&rsquo;s continued purchases of Russian oil.
India is negotiating a long-pending free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union. Key sticking points remain around market access, environmental standards, and rules of origin. Goyal stressed that India is focused on sustainable, long-term trade strategies rather than short-term gains, noting, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not just about being able to sell steel to America in the next six months.&rdquo;
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Trade discussions with the United States, which recently imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian exports, as well as other trading partners, are ongoing. While Western nations, including the EU, UK, and US, are urging India to reduce imports of discounted Russian crude&mdash;citing support for Moscow&rsquo;s war effort in Ukraine&mdash;New Delhi has maintained that such energy purchases are vital for affordability and energy security. However, Indian refiners are now set to sharply curtail Russian oil imports to align with new U.S. sanctions targeting two major Russian producers.
Analysts note that India&rsquo;s careful approach signals a desire to balance strategic economic partnerships while safeguarding national interests, energy security, and market flexibility.

Commerce Minister Goyal signals measured approach in EU, US trade talks

India cautious on trade deals amid US tariffs

Commerce Minister Goyal signals measured approach in EU, US trade talks

October 24, 2025 | 15:38 IST