India, US agree to accentuate efforts for early commerce deal conclusion: Commerce Ministry
The Ministry of Commerce mentioned on Tuesday that India and america have determined to step up negotiations for the early conclusion of a bilateral commerce settlement. A crew of officers from the workplace of United States Commerce Consultant held discussions with officers from the Division of Commerce in New Delhi on Tuesday
“Acknowledging the enduring significance of bilateral commerce between India and the U.S., the discussions have been constructive and ahead wanting protecting numerous points of the commerce deal. It was determined to accentuate efforts to attain early conclusion of a mutually useful Commerce Settlement,” the ministry mentioned.
Brendan Lynch, the Assistant U.S. Commerce Consultant for South and Central Asia, led the American crew. On the Indian facet, Rajesh Agrawal, Particular Secretary within the Division of Commerce, acted as chief negotiator. Lynch arrived in New Delhi late Monday for a day-long spherical of discussions.
This was the primary in-person assembly between senior commerce officers since Washington imposed steep import tariffs on Indian exports. Earlier in July, the Trump administration levied a 25 per cent tariff and a further 25 per cent penalty on Indian items in retaliation for New Delhi’s buy of Russian crude oil. India has known as the mixed 50 per cent responsibility unfair and unreasonable.
Talks on the Bilateral Commerce Settlement (BTA) have been first directed by leaders of the 2 international locations in February 2025, with a plan to finalise the primary tranche by the autumn of this yr. 5 rounds of negotiations have already taken place. The sixth spherical, scheduled from August 25–29, was postponed after the tariffs have been introduced.
Officers had clarified that Lynch’s go to shouldn’t be seen because the sixth spherical of negotiations, however as a precursor. Within the meantime, the 2 sides have been holding weekly digital discussions to maintain the method alive.
The talks got here days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s current constructive remarks on commerce ties. India has continued to defend its buy of Russian crude, saying that its vitality procurement is guided by market dynamics and nationwide curiosity.
On the identical time, Indian officers have repeatedly emphasised that any commerce deal should shield the pursuits of farmers, dairy producers, and MSMEs.
