India-US Trade Deal Raises Fears Among Farmers

New Delhi, February 21, 2026: The recent India-US trade deal has sparked strong reactions among Indian farmers. Many believe the agreement will increase their financial problems instead of helping them.

Reports published by India Decoded suggest that millions of cotton farmers in India could face serious losses under the new trade terms.

Zero-Duty Imports Create Pressure

According to the report, the agreement may allow the import of US corn, cotton, fruits, and soybeans at zero duty. Experts warn that cheaper imports could reduce demand for local crops.

Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said that India is already importing cotton worth 334 million dollars from the United States. He claimed that this has hurt domestic farmers.

Farmers in Punjab, Gujarat, and Maharashtra are reportedly struggling. Cotton prices have fallen. Many growers are facing heavy debt.

Falling Production and Rising Competition

Because of low prices, some farmers are shifting to other crops that offer better profit. As a result, cotton production in India has gradually declined.

The report also states that Bangladesh, which imports cotton instead of producing it locally, may benefit from cheaper US cotton. This could strengthen Bangladesh’s textile sector.

Bangladeshi garments may also receive zero-duty access to the US market. In contrast, Indian exporters could face tariffs of up to 18 percent. Analysts say this will make Bangladeshi products more competitive in the American market.

Expert Opinion

Economic experts argue that zero-duty benefits to other countries may weaken Indian exporters. They also say that if domestic farmers continue to face falling prices and rising imports, rural economic pressure will grow.

The trade deal has now become a major topic of debate in India. Farmers’ groups across the country are holding protests and demanding policy review.