Jaipur: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Tuesday welcomed the final approval of the India–United States trade agreement, calling it a significant milestone that will provide fresh momentum to Indian exports, particularly benefiting artisans and small-scale exporters.
Speaking on the development, Sharma said that the U.S. administration has substantially reduced tariffs on Indian goods, marking a major breakthrough in bilateral trade relations. “The trade deal between India and the United States has received final approval. The U.S. administration has made a substantial reduction in tariffs imposed on Indian goods. It has been directly reduced from 50% to 18%. This is a new ray of hope for our artisans and exporters,” the Chief Minister stated.
He emphasized that the steep reduction in tariffs is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Indian products in the American market, opening up greater opportunities for traditional industries and export-oriented sectors. Rajasthan, known for its handicrafts, textiles, gemstones, and handloom products, is likely to be among the key beneficiaries of the agreement.
According to Sharma, artisans and exporters in the state have long faced challenges due to high tariffs and restricted market access. The revised tariff structure, he said, will help reduce cost pressures, improve profit margins, and encourage higher export volumes. He added that the agreement aligns with the broader vision of strengthening India’s position in global trade while promoting employment generation at the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that the trade deal reflects the growing strategic and economic partnership between India and the United States. He noted that improved trade conditions would not only support exporters but also attract investment, boost manufacturing, and reinforce supply chains linked to international markets.
Industry experts believe that the tariff cut could lead to increased demand for Indian goods in the U.S., particularly in labour-intensive sectors. This, in turn, is expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth, especially in states with strong export ecosystems like Rajasthan.
Sharma reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting exporters through policy facilitation, infrastructure development, and market access initiatives. He expressed confidence that the India–US trade agreement would play a crucial role in strengthening India’s export economy and uplifting traditional industries across the country.
