New Horizons" – India and the U.S. Move Closer to a Historic Trade Deal by Fall 2025
The Indian government announced that bilateral negotiations with the United States regarding a trade agreement have made "positive progress," boosting hopes for reaching a preliminary deal by the fall of 2025.
In an official statement, the Indian Ministry of Commerce confirmed that both sides discussed ways to shape the first phase of the agreement to achieve mutual benefits, while continuing efforts to address outstanding tariff issues, according to Reuters
This progress follows a previous agreement reached in February, aimed at working toward a comprehensive deal to resolve disputes over tariffs, with New Delhi showing readiness to consider lowering duties on $23 billion worth of U.S. imports
Detailed Sectoral Negotiations and Efforts to Resolve Disputes
India and the United States have begun detailed discussions to identify sectors where both sides could make concessions. A joint statement outlining the contours of the final agreement is expected by the end of May.
Both countries are leveraging the temporary suspension of additional tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, with New Delhi seeking to seize this opportunity to boost its exports and strengthen its trade relations with Washington
Indian media reports suggest that the ongoing talks are the most extensive in years, reflecting a serious commitment from both parties to end long standing disputes and build a more balanced and sustainable trade partnership.
Despite the progress made, observers caution that sensitive issues, such as agricultural products and technology, may still require additional rounds of negotiation before a comprehensive agreement is finalized