India–US Close to Finalizing Major Trade Deal Despite Tariff Tensions
India and the United States are nearing a major bilateral trade agreement that could significantly reduce American tariffs on a wide range of Indian goods. According to sources familiar with the discussions, negotiators are working on lowering tariffs to nearly 15–16%, a sharp drop from the current high rates that in some cases reach up to 50%.
The proposed deal, however, may come with strategic conditions. The U.S. is reportedly seeking assurances from India to limit imports of Russian crude oil in exchange for these tariff concessions. Officials say this condition is still under negotiation, but it remains a key point of discussion.
Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed that talks are progressing positively, describing the engagement as “very good negotiations” and expressing confidence that both nations are moving toward a “mutually beneficial” agreement.
Economists believe the trade pact could reshape global commerce. Experts such as Arvind Panagariya estimate that the deal could help push India–U.S. bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, making it one of the world’s largest economic corridors.
However, recent friction remains a concern. The U.S. had earlier imposed 25% tariffs on several Indian exports, followed by additional penalties over India’s continued purchase of Russian energy. Despite these tensions, both sides appear committed to using the upcoming trade pact to stabilize economic relations and reduce tariff conflicts.
The final terms are expected to be announced in the coming months as negotiations enter their advanced stage.