Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is set to appear for an exclusive live interview with CNN-News18 Editor-in-Chief Rahul Joshi, where he will provide crucial insights into the recent GST reforms passed by the GST Council and India’s stance on the escalating trade tensions with the United States.

This highly anticipated conversation comes just a day after the GST Council, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, approved a sweeping tax reform package designed to simplify India’s indirect tax system and bring relief to millions of consumers and businesses. The timing of the interview makes it particularly important as it addresses both domestic tax reforms and global trade pressures shaping India’s economic trajectory.

GST Reforms: The Diwali Bonanza

One of the highlights of the discussion will be the much-talked-about GST Diwali Bonanza announced by the Centre. Under the new system, effective September 22, the GST framework will undergo a major overhaul:

• The current 12% and 28% slabs will be abolished.

• A simplified two-slab system of 5% and 18% will replace them.

• A special 40% rate will be reserved for luxury and sin goods such as high-end cars, alcohol, and tobacco products.

The move has been hailed as a landmark tax reform, aiming to reduce complexity, increase compliance, and provide relief to households and businesses. According to government officials, this step will make the system more transparent and predictable, while also boosting consumption during the festive season.

Piyush Goyal is expected to explain how these reforms will benefit the Indian middle class, encourage investment, and contribute to India’s growth story at a time when global economic headwinds are mounting.

US Tariffs: A Challenge for Indian Exports

Another key topic will be the escalating India-US trade dispute. US President Donald Trump recently imposed 50% tariffs on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil. The tariffs have raised concerns about the potential impact on Indian exporters, particularly in sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, IT services, and agriculture.

While India is one of the fastest-growing economies, such tariffs threaten to erode competitiveness in the American market, which remains one of India’s largest trading partners.

Goyal has previously stated that India will not bow to external pressure or rush into agreements under duress. He is expected to reiterate that India’s trade policy will remain independent and pragmatic, balancing strategic energy needs with the imperative of export-led growth.

India’s Economic Outlook

Beyond GST and tariffs, the interview will also shed light on:

• India’s GDP growth outlook, which the government expects to remain strong despite global challenges.

• Plans to boost domestic manufacturing under Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

• Strategies to expand export markets beyond the US, strengthening ties with Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

• The government’s focus on digital trade, infrastructure development, and skilling initiatives to future-proof India’s economy.

As India navigates global uncertainties—from oil market volatility to geopolitical conflicts—Piyush Goyal’s perspective will offer clarity on how the government plans to safeguard India’s long-term growth trajectory while addressing immediate challenges.

Why This Interview Matters

This exclusive interaction is significant for several reasons:

• It provides a direct explanation from the Commerce Minister on how GST reforms will affect ordinary citizens and businesses.

• It addresses rising concerns among exporters and investors over the impact of US tariffs.

• It highlights India’s approach to balancing domestic priorities with global economic realities.

With the festive season approaching and elections looming on the horizon, the GST reforms are being seen not only as an economic measure but also as a political masterstroke that could strengthen the government’s popularity among the middle class.

Conclusion

The live interview with Piyush Goyal is expected to be a comprehensive dialogue on India’s economic reforms, trade diplomacy, and future growth strategy. By addressing both domestic tax relief and international trade tensions, the Commerce Minister will seek to reassure citizens, businesses, and investors that India remains resilient and forward-looking despite external challenges.

The session is scheduled for 6 PM on CNN-News18, and it promises to be a must-watch for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and ordinary Indians keen to understand how these policy decisions will shape their lives and the country’s future.

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