India, US Held 'Constructive' Talks, Committed To Seal Interim Trade Deal: MEA

Officials from India and the United States held discussions over the interim trade deal this week, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. Describing the talks as “positive and constructive”, the MEA underscored the commitment of both governments to secure the trade deal.

According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, a delegation from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), led by its chief negotiator, visited India from June 1 to June 4 to advance discussions on the proposed trade pact.

Interim Trade Pact Discussions Advance

The negotiations were conducted under the framework agreed upon by the two countries in a joint statement issued on February 7, 2026. The framework aims to establish an interim agreement

focused on reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade while laying the groundwork for a broader India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement.

Focus On Trade, Customs & Economic Security

During the latest round of talks, officials discussed a wide range of issues, including trade in goods, non-tariff measures, customs procedures, trade facilitation, economic security alignment and other areas of mutual interest, the Commerce Ministry said in a press release.

In a statement, the Ministry said the engagements were marked by “a spirit of cooperation and pragmatism,” with both sides reaffirming their commitment to concluding a mutually beneficial agreement that would strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties.

The negotiations come amid growing efforts by New Delhi and Washington to deepen economic cooperation and expand trade relations. Officials from both countries are expected to continue discussions in the coming months as they work towards finalising the interim agreement and advancing broader trade negotiations.