India, US move closer to interim trade deal after four days of talks

Trade negotiations between India and the United States moved a step closer to an interim agreement after both sides concluded four days of discussions in New Delhi, with the Commerce Ministry describing the talks as constructive and positive.

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 Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

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

According to the ministry, discussions covered a broad range of issues, including trade in goods, non-tariff measures, customs and trade facilitation, economic security alignment, and other areas of mutual interest.

The current negotiations stem from a Joint Statement issued by India and the United States on February 7, 2026, under which both countries agreed on a framework for an interim trade agreement while reaffirming their commitment to a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement.

The latest round of talks comes amid growing optimism that the first tranche of the agreement could be finalised soon. Last week, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said the two sides were in the final stages of negotiations, with only about 1% of the agreement left to be resolved.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal subsequently said that most issues had been settled and that discussions were largely focused on finalising minor details. He also expressed hope that the first phase of the BTA would be concluded soon, while negotiations for a more comprehensive trade arrangement would continue.

Government sources have indicated that India is seeking relief from tariff actions linked to Section 301 investigations and preferential market access for Indian exports relative to competing countries. Sources have also suggested that US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer could visit India once the broad contours of the agreement are finalised.

The latest discussions follow an earlier round of in-person meetings held in Washington DC between April 20 and April 23.