India-US Trade Talks Conclude, Deal Hangs in Balance

The fifth round of India-US trade negotiations wrapped up in Washington DC, with India’s delegation, led by Chief Negotiator Rajesh Agrawal, returning to New Delhi. The talks, aimed at securing a mini trade agreement, come just before the US-imposed August 1 tariff deadline, leaving the outcome uncertain as both nations await results.

The discussions are critical for India, particularly as the US has already set new tariffs on regional competitors like Thailand, Cambodia, and Bangladesh. Uncertainty persists over whether the talks will yield a mini trade deal or result in a tariff letter deal. Indian export sectors are increasingly anxious about potential tariff disparities and delayed US orders, prompting the government to adopt a cautious “wait-and-watch” stance.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has emphasized that India will only finalize a deal aligned with national interests, prioritizing sectors like textiles, leather, and jewelry while safeguarding agriculture and dairy. The US, meanwhile, seeks greater market access for its agricultural products, a sticking point in negotiations.

Also Read: India-US Trade Talks Intensify in Washington as Tariff Deadline Looms

Also Read: India-US Trade Talks Intensify in Washington as Tariff Deadline Looms