JAIPUR: In a bid to improve their partnership and eliminate ongoing trade tensions, India and the United States are exploring avenues to resolve a pending trade dispute and are considering allowing companies from both nations to engage in government contract bids.
These matters are anticipated to be deliberated upon in discussions between Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Katherine Tai over the upcoming weekend. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington, the two countries agreed to address six lingering trade disputes within the framework of the WTO. Currently, the focus is on finding a resolution to the conflict surrounding poultry products, as stated by a high-ranking official.
The poultry issue dates back to 2012 when the US brought a case against India at the WTO. After multiple stages of review, it was ruled that India's prohibition on importing poultry products from the US contradicted international norms. Consequently, the US requested compensation when India was unable to implement the decision within the prescribed time period. Presently, both nations are in discussions to amicably settle the dispute.
In June, during Prime Minister Modi's visit to the US, a joint statement acknowledged India's desire to be recognized as a Trade Agreements Act-designated country by the US, aiming to enhance economic integration and foster bilateral trade and investment. Regarding the issue of government procurement, an official mentioned, "We also want to be part of their process, and they also want us to be part of our process."
