Prabhu emphasized that any trade agreement must be mutually beneficial and enhance the strengths of both economies, rather than exploiting inherent weaknesses. This message, delivered in the context of the new 25% tariff on Indian imports, is a clear signal to the U.S. and the broader international dairy community. It reiterates that India’s willingness to engage in trade talks does not extend to compromising the core of its rural economy.

For India, the agribusiness sector, particularly dairying, is a critical source of income for more than 600 million people—a population almost double the size of the entire U.S. population. This vast network of small farmers and producers forms the backbone of the country’s rural economy. Prabhu’s statement serves as a stark reminder that a trade deal that opens the Indian market to subsidized foreign dairy products could have catastrophic consequences for these millions of livelihoods.

The former minister, who previously negotiated with the Trump administration, expressed his confidence that the current Indian government would protect national interests. His warning is a direct pushback against U.S. demands for duty concessions on sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy, a position India has consistently maintained. This hardline stance on dairy economics is rooted in the protection of its domestic farmers.