Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal, in a special conversation with ANI on the sidelines of BIOFACH 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany (February 11, 2026), expressed hope that the legal text of the India-US Interim Trade Agreement will be finalized and signed before March 2026. This framework stems from the February 7 Joint Statement, which outlined broad rules including mutual tariff reduction and market access.

Aggarwal said: “The joint statement outlines the broad rules… Now it needs to be converted into a legal document. The process is underway. We hope that before the end of March, we will be able to finalize and sign the legal agreement.” He acknowledged that drafting could take time, but said teams are actively working toward an operational timeline in March.

The key advantages focus on India’s labor-intensive sectors (e.g., textiles, clothing, leather, footwear), which Aggarwal said will have “unimpeded” growth in the US market. Talking about the 18% US reciprocal tariff ceiling, he said it remains competitive compared to competitors in the region, and the benefits will ultimately accrue to consumers and the industry.

On sensitive sectors like dairy, agriculture and fisheries, Agarwal stressed: India negotiated with a “clear mindset”, and protected all key areas. No exemptions were given for highly sensitive commodities (e.g., corn, wheat, rice, soy, poultry, milk, cheese, ethanol, tobacco, some vegetables/meats). Where limited access applies, systems such as tariff rate quotas (TRQs) have minimal impacts on farmers and ecosystems—reflecting India’s approach in five recent trade pacts.

Stakeholders and exporters have responded positively, giving the outcome a “thumbs up”. During the talks, Agarwal stressed the need for deep consultation and confidence that Indian exports will rebuild the supply chain, build on past performance and compete effectively.

He also expected strong January trade data (merchandise and services) to be released on February 15, with services performing “very well”. India’s key role as Country of the Year at BIOFACH 2026 reflects its maturing organic sector and global outreach.

This interim agreement builds on recent tariff relief and is intended to pave the way for a larger bilateral trade agreement.