The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said the latest round of negotiations between India and the United States on a bilateral trade deal has been “positive and forward-looking,” with both sides agreeing to intensify efforts for an early conclusion.
Speaking at the weekly MEA briefing, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have a delegation from the United States led by United States Trade Representative, led by Chief Negotiator Brenden Lynch, who had meetings with senior officials of the Ministry of Commerce on September 16 to take forward the ongoing negotiations for a trade deal with the US.”
Strengthening strategic partnership
The MEA noted that the discussions covered a broad range of issues and were aimed at achieving a mutually beneficial agreement. Jaiswal added, “As far as the India-US relationship is concerned, let me tell you that we remain committed to taking this very special partnership, the comprehensive global strategic partnership that we have with the United States, forward and to newer heights.”
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The Ministry of Commerce and Industry also released a statement confirming that Brendan Lynch, the US Chief Negotiator for India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement talks, visited India for the meetings. Indian officials were led by the Special Secretary, Department of Commerce.
Agreement to intensify talks
According to the Commerce Ministry, “Acknowledging the enduring importance of bilateral trade between India and the US, the discussions were positive and forward-looking, covering various aspects of the trade deal. It was decided to intensify efforts to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement.”
The talks mark the continuation of efforts launched in March this year when both nations began negotiating a just, balanced, and mutually beneficial Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The aim is to complete the first stage by October-November 2025.
Tariffs cast a shadow
The negotiations come against the backdrop of tariff measures imposed by US President Donald Trump. In July, Washington levied a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, which was later doubled to 50 per cent in August, citing India’s continued imports of Russian oil. The elevated tariffs have added urgency to the discussions on a possible interim deal.
India, however, has expressed concerns over US demands to open its agricultural and dairy markets—sectors considered highly sensitive, given their role in providing livelihoods to millions.
