The United States has revised its official factsheet on the proposed interim trade agreement with India, removing references to certain pulses and softening language on investment and tax commitments after concerns were raised by New Delhi.
The original factsheet, released by the White House earlier this week, stated that India would reduce or eliminate tariffs on a range of American agricultural products. Among the items mentioned were tree nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine, spirits and “certain pulses.” Pulses such as lentils and chickpeas are a sensitive commodity in India, which is both the world’s largest producer and consumer. Their inclusion had sparked attention, given the political and economic importance of protecting Indian farmers.
In the revised version, the specific mention of pulses has been removed. The document now broadly refers to improved access for “a wide range of U.S. agricultural products,” without naming individual items.
Another significant change relates to India’s projected purchases from the United States. The earlier draft said India was “committed” to buying more than $500 billion worth of American goods over five years, including energy, coal and technology products. The updated factsheet replaces the word “committed” with “intends,” indicating a softer, non-binding formulation. References to agricultural purchases in this context have also been dropped.
The language around digital trade has been modified as well. While the initial document suggested India would remove its digital services tax, the revised text now states that both sides will negotiate digital trade rules, aligning more closely with previously issued joint statements.
Officials indicated that the revisions were made to better reflect the mutually agreed terms of the interim framework.
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