India’s Chief Economic Advisor, V. Anantha Nageswaran, expressed optimism on December 11 that most trade issues between India and the United States have been “sorted out,” and he would be surprised if a deal is not finalized by March 2026. Speaking to Bloomberg TV, he emphasized his confidence in a positive outcome for ongoing negotiations.
The remarks come amid a visit by a high-level US delegation led by Deputy US Trade Representative Rick Switzer to New Delhi, aimed at addressing outstanding trade barriers, particularly in agriculture. The delegation is working closely with India’s negotiating team, led by Joint Secretary Darpan Jain, to advance the framework of the bilateral trade agreement.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer recently stated that India has made the “best offers Washington has received as a country,” highlighting the progress in discussions. While some resistance remains on specific crop imports, new proposals have indicated an unusual openness from India, according to US officials.
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The trade talks are unfolding in parallel with broader strategic engagements between the two countries. US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker completed a five-day visit to India on December 11 to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. The developments come shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, reflecting the evolving global trade and geopolitical landscape.
CEA Nageswaran also noted that India’s FY27 economic outlook is showing positive momentum. He highlighted that the Indian rupee is currently “undershooting” its economic fundamentals, suggesting room for further strengthening as trade agreements progress.
The ongoing India-US discussions cover both a framework trade deal to address tariffs and a comprehensive trade agreement, with March 2026 emerging as a potential milestone for finalization. Both sides appear committed to concluding the negotiations, which could open new avenues for market access and bilateral economic growth.
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