Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday urged exporters to stay calm amid a global tariff storm, assuring them India is crafting a “right mix” for a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the US. Speaking at a meeting with export councils and industry bodies, he emphasized speed without haste to secure a deal benefiting India.

The BTA, targeting a first-phase conclusion by fall 2025, aims to boost India-US trade from $191 billion to $500 billion. The push comes as US tariffs, including a fresh 26% duty on India effective Wednesday, rattle markets. Goyal framed the chaos as an opportunity: “India’s proactive stance could draw global supply chain giants, spurring manufacturing and jobs.” He touted India’s reputation as a reliable, business-friendly hub.

The minister briefed exporters on ongoing US talks for a multi-sectoral BTA, promising mutual gains. “We’re exploring the right balance,” he said, per an official statement, urging focus on the “silver lining” despite America’s tariff hike. Unlike other nations scrambling to react, India’s strategy hinges on this pact, buoyed by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s earlier nod to a fall deadline.

The meeting dissected the tariff war’s fallout and opportunities, with Goyal rallying exporters to trust the government’s game plan. As Trump’s policies ripple worldwide, India’s betting on steady negotiation—not panic—to turn trade tensions into a win.