US-India trade deal in sight, says White House adviser Hassett: Report

White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett has indicated that the United States is close to finalising a landmark trade agreement with India, raising fresh optimism amid months of intense negotiations.

Speaking to CNBC, Hassett said a trade and tariff deal between the US and India is "close to the finish line," while also emphasising the strength of bilateral ties.

"We are good friends and we are hoping we can work it out soon," he said, though he acknowledged the complexity of the ongoing discussions.

Hassett noted that trade deal talks with India had become "pretty complicated" due to India's interactions with Russia, adding that multiple variables are at play in the relationship. Despite these challenges, he remained optimistic about reaching an agreement.

His comments come days after President Donald Trump said the US was getting "pretty close" to a trade deal with New Delhi and indicated he would "at some point" reduce the tariff rate on Indian goods.

The renewed optimism comes after sustained high-level engagement between the two countries. India's Commerce Ministry also confirmed that talks are progressing steadily, with both sides working to resolve concerns related to reciprocal tariffs and market access.

The trade negotiations gain added significance as India announced relief measures worth more than $5 billion for exporters

affected by steep US tariffs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump have set an ambitious target of $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, underscoring the strategic importance both nations attach to deepening economic ties.