Mon Sep 15 14:25:30 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**US Threatens Trade Restrictions on India Over Corn Imports**
Washington D.C. – As trade negotiations between India and the United States are set to resume, the US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick warned India that it could face restricted access to the American market if it refuses to import US-grown corn. In an interview with Axios, Lutnick accused India of unfair trade practices, claiming the relationship is “one-way.”
“They sell to us and take advantage of us. They block us from their economy, and they sell to us while we are wide open for them to come in (and) take advantage,” Lutnick said, adding that he doesn’t understand “Why won’t 1.4 billion people buy one bushel of US corn?”
Lutnick stated that President Trump expects India to “bring down your tariffs, treat us the way we treat you.” He further said the Trump administration has to right years of wrong, so we want a tariff going the other way until we fix this. That’s the president’s model, and you either accept it or you’re going to have a tough time doing business with the world’s greatest consumer.”
India has been hesitant to import US corn due to the widespread use of genetically modified (GM) varieties, which are currently restricted in India for both import and domestic cultivation.
The US has also levied high tariffs on Indian imports, including a 25% duty on Russian oil purchased by Delhi, which India maintains is necessary for its national interest and driven by market dynamics.
The US push for corn trade comes as American farmers face economic hardship due to trade tensions with China, leading to a decline in crop orders and rising bankruptcy rates. The Trump administration appears to be seeking new markets for American farmers in India.
Despite recent friction, President Trump signaled a potential thaw in relations, expressing optimism about reaching a trade deal with India. US trade negotiators are expected in New Delhi this week to continue discussions, with the corn issue now adding a layer of complexity to the negotiations.
First Piper 