India-US Trade Deal Talks Largely Complete
The governments of India and the United States say they have nearly concluded negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, with few or no further formal rounds of talks expected. Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal told reporters the deal must be “fair, equitable and balanced” and assured that New Delhi is preparing for all outcomes.
Key Elements and Conditions
According to both sides, most of the major structural issues have been addressed and only details remain. India remains firm on protecting sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy, while the United States is pressing for greater market access and tariff reductions. Meanwhile, the U.S. administration has indicated it may lower steep tariffs on Indian goods if a deal is reached — including duties linked to India’s purchases of Russian energy.
Timeline & Outlook
While no definitive date has been fixed for signing, officials suggest the agreement could be sealed any day, next month or later this year. Negotiators say the deal may remain conditional on implementation of agreed reforms and monitoring. Both governments emphasise readiness to adjust if required and maintain that the deal must safeguard their national interests.
