New Delhi, July 11 -- India has maintained that trade-related differences with the United States should be addressed through bilateral negotiations rather than unilateral actions, calling on the US Trade Representative (USTR) to reconsider its proposed 12.5% tariff. New Delhi argued that the Section 301 investigation into alleged forced labour contains inconsistencies.

Appearing at a public hearing, Brij Mohan Mishra, Joint Secretary in the Department of Commerce, conveyed India's strong reservations over the USTR's findings, highlighting the country's constructive engagement on issues related to forced labour.

India also reaffirmed that eliminating forced labour is a constitutional commitment and an obligation it upholds under internat...