U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is scheduled to visit India in the coming months as part of a global trade mission aimed at expanding American agricultural exports. This visit holds particular importance, as the United States currently has a USD 1.3 billion agricultural trade deficit with India, despite being India’s sixth-largest supplier of agricultural products.
Secretary Rollins’ trip highlights the U.S. administration’s renewed focus on strengthening trade ties with key global markets. This outreach follows the announcement by President Donald J. Trump of a new trade agreement in principle with the United Kingdom on May 8, 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe.
The agreement is expected to reduce tariffs, eliminate trade barriers, and expand market access for U.S. agricultural products, offering what officials estimate as a USD 5 billion export opportunity. Rollins described the agreement as “historic,” particularly for its provisions to enhance access for American beef and ethanol.
Rollins recently visited the UK from May 12 to 14 as her first foreign mission under this initiative. In the coming months, she is scheduled to visit Japan, Vietnam, Brazil, Peru, Italy, and India as part of her broader strategy to open new markets, increase access for U.S. products, and ensure that trading partners treat American farmers, ranchers, and producers fairly.
The United States currently faces several challenges in its agricultural trade relationships. While countries like Japan and Vietnam are among the top destinations for key U.S. commodities, the absence of trade agreements with some, like Vietnam, puts American products at a disadvantage compared to competitors such as China. Meanwhile, nations like Brazil and India maintain trade surpluses with the U.S.
During her visit to India, Secretary Rollins is expected to engage with Indian government officials and explore ways to improve U.S. access to the Indian market. This will likely include discussions on reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers that hinder the entry of American agricultural goods.
With its large and growing consumer base, India presents significant long-term opportunities for U.S. agriculture, making this visit a crucial step in advancing mutual trade interests.
