India Will Never Allow Genetically Modified Imports, Says Piyush Goyal

Trade Stance

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated on Tuesday that India has never allowed imports of genetically modified products and will not do so in the future. Speaking to students at Kirori Mal College, he emphasized that the country treats this as a very sensitive issue. He also noted that India has never given duty concessions in any free trade agreement for the dairy sector, which remains strictly protected alongside agriculture.

Protecting Local Sectors

Goyal explained that India guards its sensitive domestic interests like marine products and dairy while negotiating trade pacts. He highlighted that religious sensitivities are also considered, pointing out that India restricts dairy products containing calf meat or Rennet unless properly certified. Rennet is an enzyme used in cheese-making that traditionally comes from the stomach lining of young calves. Overall, the government aims to safeguard farmers, fishermen, and MSMEs in international trade deals.

Jobs and Exports

While protecting sensitive local industries, India actively seeks preferential market access for competitive sectors such as textiles, pharma, agriculture, and gems and jewellery. Goyal explained that the goal is to secure lower import duties for Indian goods compared to competitors like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. To tackle employment, the government is heavily promoting local manufacturing alongside entrepreneurship and startups.

Context

Trade agreements involve complex negotiations where nations balance opening up certain markets with protecting vital domestic groups like farmers and small businesses. India's approach reflects a long-standing policy of guarding local agricultural and dairy producers from foreign competition.