India maintains strict stance on GM imports, dairy sector protections

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated India's unwavering position on agricultural protections while addressing students at Kirori Mal College in New Delhi. The minister stated that India has never permitted imports of genetically modified products and will continue to maintain this stance in future trade agreements.

Goyal underscored that India has prioritized the interests of its farming community, fisheries sector, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) throughout all trade negotiations. The government views these sectors as sensitive and has consistently refused to compromise on their protection in bilateral and multilateral trade pacts.

The minister's remarks come amid ongoing discussions around various free trade agreements India is pursuing with trading partners. By reaffirming India's position on GM products and the dairy sector, Goyal sought to assure farmers and rural stakeholders that government policy remains focused on their welfare and food security.

India's cautious approach to agricultural imports reflects broader policy objectives of maintaining domestic agricultural stability and ensuring farmer livelihoods remain protected from international competition. The government's stance has remained consistent across successive administrations when negotiating trade agreements with developed and developing nations.