The Donald Trump White House on Tuesday (Feb 10) released its first fact sheet on the recently released trade deal between the United States and India. The WH said that the historic deal, which will open India's market of 1.4 billion people to American products, seeks to realise "balanced, reciprocal trade with an important trading partner." Notably, the document does not mention anything concrete on India’s commitment to stop buying Russian oil, which had appeared earlier in an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump. The sole mention of this can be found in a brief statement acknowledging that Trump “agreed to remove the additional 25% tariff on imports from India in recognition of India’s commitment to stop purchasing Russian Federation oil.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lifts-25-tariff-on-india-says-new-delhi-committed-to-stop-directly-or-indirectly-importing-russian-federation-oil-1770427129351">Trump lifts 25% tariff on India, says New Delhi 'committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil'</a><h2>Achieving reciprocal trade and tariff reductions</h2>According to the White House, the agreement will open India’s market of more than 1.4 billion people to American goods by lowering tariffs and easing non-tariff barriers.The agreement will see the United States reduce so-called reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from the earlier 25 per cent level, though the timeline for implementing that reduction has not yet been finalised. Meanwhile, India will eliminate or reduce duties on all US industrial goods and a wide range of agricultural products.Among the specific products listed in the fact sheet are dried distillers’ grains (DDGs), red sorghum used for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, pulses, soybean oil, wine and spirits.Washington has long argued that India maintains high trade barriers, and in the document cites average agricultural tariffs of "as high as an average of 37% for agricultural goods and more than 100% on certain autos".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/t20-meets-trade-piyush-goyal-delivers-cricket-style-jab-on-india-us-tariff-deal-steals-spotlight-at-us-event-watch-1770699972794">Piyush Goyal delivers cricket-style jab on India-US tariff deal. Watch</a><h2>Digital trade and technology cooperation</h2>One of the most significant commitments highlighted in the fact sheet is India’s decision to remove its digital services tax. "India will remove its digital services taxes and committed to negotiate a robust set of bilateral digital trade rules that address discriminatory or burdensome practices and other barriers to digital trade, including rules that prohibit the imposition of customs duties on electronic transmissions."The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in technology trade, strengthen supply chain resilience and coordinate on investment screening and export controls. The White House said the agreement would "significantly increase bilateral trade in technology products" and deepen collaboration in innovation and manufacturing ecosystems.&nbsp;

The White House has released its first fact sheet on the new US-India trade deal. The document mentions tariff relief for India but offers little detail on New Delhi’s reported pledge to stop buying Russian oil. All details here.

The Donald Trump White House on Tuesday (Feb 10) released its first fact sheet on the recently released trade deal between the United States and India. The WH said that the historic deal, which will open India's market of 1.4 billion people to American products, seeks to realise "balanced, reciprocal trade with an important trading partner." Notably, the document does not mention anything concrete on India’s commitment to stop buying Russian oil, which had appeared earlier in an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump. The sole mention of this can be found in a brief statement acknowledging that Trump “agreed to remove the additional 25% tariff on imports from India in recognition of India’s commitment to stop purchasing Russian Federation oil.” Also read | Trump lifts 25% tariff on India, says New Delhi 'committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil' Achieving reciprocal trade and tariff reductions According to the White House, the agreement will open India’s market of more than 1.4 billion people to American goods by lowering tariffs and easing non-tariff barriers. The agreement will see the United States reduce so-called reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent from the earlier 25 per cent level, though the timeline for implementing that reduction has not yet been finalised. Meanwhile, India will eliminate or reduce duties on all US industrial goods and a wide range of agricultural products. Among the specific products listed in the fact sheet are dried distillers’ grains (DDGs), red sorghum used for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, pulses, soybean oil, wine and spirits. Washington has long argued that India maintains high trade barriers, and in the document cites average agricultural tariffs of "as high as an average of 37% for agricultural goods and more than 100% on certain autos". Also read | Piyush Goyal delivers cricket-style jab on India-US tariff deal. Watch Digital trade and technology cooperation One of the most significant commitments highlighted in the fact sheet is India’s decision to remove its digital services tax. "India will remove its digital services taxes and committed to negotiate a robust set of bilateral digital trade rules that address discriminatory or burdensome practices and other barriers to digital trade, including rules that prohibit the imposition of customs duties on electronic transmissions." The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in technology trade, strengthen supply chain resilience and coordinate on investment screening and export controls. The White House said the agreement would "significantly increase bilateral trade in technology products" and deepen collaboration in innovation and manufacturing ecosystems.

The White House has released its first fact sheet on the new US-India trade deal. The document mentions tariff relief for India but offers little detail on New Delhi’s reported pledge to stop buying Russian oil. All details here.

White House releases first official fact sheet on US-India trade deal; no mention of New Delhi ending Russian oil purchase

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday (Feb 9) used a touch of humour to highlight India's evolving trade relationship with the United States, drawing an unusual comparison between tariffs and cricket during a diplomatic reception. Speaking at an event hosted at the residence of US Ambassador Sergio Gor, Goyal referred to India’s recent victory over the United States in a T20 World Cup match and linked it to the newly announced tariff framework between the two countries.<h2>Goyal's 18% jab at Gor</h2>Praising the US's performance at the T20 World Cup match, the Indian commerce minister, in jest, said that America may have won the match "if only" President Donald Trump had "made the reciprocal tariff zero"."The US may not have won yesterday’s match, but I must say, for a country which has not known cricket and has started on cricket only a few years ago, the performance was fabulous," Goyal said, praising the American team’s showing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-lai-s-son-sebastien-lai-asks-trump-to-tell-xi-the-prison-sentence-is-a-mistake-warns-if-he-dies-1770685339030">Jimmy Lai’s son Sebastien Lai asks Trump to tell Xi the prison sentence is a ‘mistake,’ warns ‘if he dies...’</a>He then recalled a light-hearted exchange with Ambassador Gor during the game. "Sergio pointed out one very important factor — the US lost the match by 18%. And a very humble request I made to him, as a suggestion, that if only you had made the reciprocal tariff zero, you would possibly have won the match," said Piyush Goyal.Watch what he said here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: &quot;...The US may not have won yesterday&#39;s match (against India in the T20 World Cup), but I must say, for a country which has not known Cricket and has started on Cricket a few years ago, the performance was fabulous. Sergio was there to enjoy the match...Sergio… <a href="https://t.co/bmwimEor1u">pic.twitter.com/bmwimEor1u</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2020874074814361955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The remark came just days after India and the United States released a joint statement outlining details of a new trade agreement aimed at reducing tariffs and expanding market access on both sides.<h2>India-US trade deal</h2>Under the agreement, US tariffs on Indian exports will fall sharply from about 50 per cent to 18 per cent, easing pressure on several export-oriented sectors. Indian industries expected to benefit include textiles and apparel, leather and footwear, plastic and rubber goods, organic chemicals, home decor products, artisanal items and select machinery.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lifts-25-tariff-on-india-says-new-delhi-committed-to-stop-directly-or-indirectly-importing-russian-federation-oil-1770427129351">Trump lifts 25% tariff on India, says New Delhi 'committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil'</a>In return, India has agreed to reduce or eliminate duties on a broad range of American goods. These include industrial products as well as agricultural and food items such as dried distillers’ grains, red sorghum used for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, and wine and spirits.Negotiations for the deal began in February 2025 and continued for months before the agreement was finalised.

Piyush Goyal used cricket humour to describe India’s improving trade ties with the US, joking that America might have beaten India in a T20 match “if reciprocal tariffs were zero.” His remark came after both countries finalised a deal cutting US tariffs on Indian exports to 18%.

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday (Feb 9) used a touch of humour to highlight India's evolving trade relationship with the United States, drawing an unusual comparison between tariffs and cricket during a diplomatic reception. Speaking at an event hosted at the residence of US Ambassador Sergio Gor, Goyal referred to India’s recent victory over the United States in a T20 World Cup match and linked it to the newly announced tariff framework between the two countries. Goyal's 18% jab at Gor Praising the US's performance at the T20 World Cup match, the Indian commerce minister, in jest, said that America may have won the match "if only" President Donald Trump had "made the reciprocal tariff zero". "The US may not have won yesterday’s match, but I must say, for a country which has not known cricket and has started on cricket only a few years ago, the performance was fabulous," Goyal said, praising the American team’s showing. Also read | Jimmy Lai’s son Sebastien Lai asks Trump to tell Xi the prison sentence is a ‘mistake,’ warns ‘if he dies...’ He then recalled a light-hearted exchange with Ambassador Gor during the game. "Sergio pointed out one very important factor — the US lost the match by 18%. And a very humble request I made to him, as a suggestion, that if only you had made the reciprocal tariff zero, you would possibly have won the match," said Piyush Goyal. Watch what he said here:

Piyush Goyal used cricket humour to describe India’s improving trade ties with the US, joking that America might have beaten India in a T20 match “if reciprocal tariffs were zero.” His remark came after both countries finalised a deal cutting US tariffs on Indian exports to 18%.

T20 meets trade: Piyush Goyal delivers cricket-style jab on India-US tariff deal, steals spotlight at US event. Watch

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 07) stated that trust has become India's strongest currency at world stage after India inked major trade deals and FTAs with major economies across the globe, including the UK, EU, USA, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, and Oman.&nbsp;"Earlier, India was seen just as a huge market. Now, we are a hub for investment and trade. India is seen as a trusted partner for growth. Whether it is the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU or the USA, countries have trade deals with India. Trust has become India's strongest currency," PM Modi said.&nbsp;PM Modi made these statements while addressing the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur as part of his two-day visit to Malaysia. He further said India has witnessed a massive transformation since his last visit to the country in 2015, when India's economy was placed as the 11th largest economy, and now India is knocking on the doors of the Top 3. He added that initiatives like 'Make in India' have matured, with India now emerging as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-on-russian-oil-imports-diversification-central-to-energy-security-for-1-4-bn-citizens-1770473584712">India on Russian oil imports: Diversification central to energy security for 1.4 bn citizens</a>&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister’s remarks come on the back of India inking major trade agreements in the last year, including the recent breakthrough with the United States. This "trade sprint" was headlined by the February 6, 2026, interim agreement with the US, which slashed reciprocal tariffs to 18% and secured $500 billion in energy and tech purchases.&nbsp;This followed the January 27 signing of the "mother of all deals" with the European Union, granting zero-duty access for 99.5% of Indian exports. In mid-2025, India finalised the CETA with the UK to double trade to $112 billion, while December 2025 saw the signing of a landmark CEPA with Oman and the conclusion of a high-impact FTA with New Zealand, the latter bringing a $20 billion investment pledge. Additionally, the January 2026 expansion of the UAE partnership doubled trade targets to $200 billion, collectively positioning India as a central, competitive hub in the shifting global supply chain.&nbsp;

PM said that initiatives like 'Make in India' have matured, with India now emerging as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 07) stated that trust has become India's strongest currency at world stage after India inked major trade deals and FTAs with major economies across the globe, including the UK, EU, USA, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, and Oman. "Earlier, India was seen just as a huge market. Now, we are a hub for investment and trade. India is seen as a trusted partner for growth. Whether it is the UK, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Oman, the EU or the USA, countries have trade deals with India. Trust has become India's strongest currency," PM Modi said. PM Modi made these statements while addressing the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur as part of his two-day visit to Malaysia. He further said India has witnessed a massive transformation since his last visit to the country in 2015, when India's economy was placed as the 11th largest economy, and now India is knocking on the doors of the Top 3. He added that initiatives like 'Make in India' have matured, with India now emerging as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. Also Read: India on Russian oil imports: Diversification central to energy security for 1.4 bn citizens Indian Prime Minister’s remarks come on the back of India inking major trade agreements in the last year, including the recent breakthrough with the United States. This "trade sprint" was headlined by the February 6, 2026, interim agreement with the US, which slashed reciprocal tariffs to 18% and secured $500 billion in energy and tech purchases. This followed the January 27 signing of the "mother of all deals" with the European Union, granting zero-duty access for 99.5% of Indian exports. In mid-2025, India finalised the CETA with the UK to double trade to $112 billion, while December 2025 saw the signing of a landmark CEPA with Oman and the conclusion of a high-impact FTA with New Zealand, the latter bringing a $20 billion investment pledge. Additionally, the January 2026 expansion of the UAE partnership doubled trade targets to $200 billion, collectively positioning India as a central, competitive hub in the shifting global supply chain.

PM said that initiatives like 'Make in India' have matured, with India now emerging as the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer.

Trust has become India’s strongest currency: PM Modi on deals with key global partners

Union Minister Piyush Goyal described the announcement of the interim framework of the India-US trade agreement on Saturday (Feb 07) as "the day etched in golden letter." He stated that the $30 trillion US economy will be open to Indian exporters, with the lowest tariffs compared to neighbouring countries. At the same time, several sectors, such as gems and pharmaceuticals, are exempt from tariffs.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference, Goyal said, “Today will be written in golden words. There is a wave of happiness across the country. New opportunities are opening up on a very large scale, especially for our farmers, artisans, and manufacturers.”&nbsp;"A $30 trillion economy is now open to our exporters. This joint statement gives every Indian citizen an opportunity for new hope, enthusiasm, and new resolutions. The 50 per cent tariff that Indian exporters faced will now be only 18 per cent. We will have the lowest tariffs compared to our neighbouring countries. Exporters of gems and pharmaceuticals will face zero duty in the US," he said.&nbsp;The commerce minister assured that Indian farmers remain protected in this agreement, while Indian farm products will be exported to the United States at Zero duty. "Agricultural products from Indian farmers will be exported to the United States at zero duty. At the same time, no tariff concessions have been granted for agricultural products from US farmers entering the Indian market."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-will-attack-their-bases-iran-s-big-warning-to-trump-if-us-attacks-tehran-1770459293810">‘Will attack their bases’: Iran’s BIG warning to Trump if US attacks Tehran</a>&nbsp;“Products made by our farmers, including spices, tea, coffee, coconut, cashew, mango, banana, guava, pineapple, and processed items like jams and juices, will now face zero reciprocal tariff in the United States. Sensitive commodities like rice, wheat, sugar, millets, and pulses remain fully protected,” Goyal said.&nbsp;He emphasised that the agreement clearly states that "genetically modified (GM) food will not be allowed into India."&nbsp;Under the agreement, tariffs on a wide range of goods, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems &amp; diamonds, and aircraft parts, will be reduced to zero.&nbsp;"Tariffs will go down to zero on a wide range of goods, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems &amp; diamonds, and aircraft parts, thereby further enhancing India's export competitiveness and Make in India. India will also get exemptions under section 232 on aircraft parts, tariff rate quota on auto parts and negotiated outcomes on generic pharmaceuticals, leading to tangible export gains in these sectors," Goyal added.

Addressing a press conference on interim framework of the India-US trade agreement, Goyal said that the Interests of farmers, MSMEs, artisans and craftsmen will remain protected. 

Union Minister Piyush Goyal described the announcement of the interim framework of the India-US trade agreement on Saturday (Feb 07) as "the day etched in golden letter." He stated that the $30 trillion US economy will be open to Indian exporters, with the lowest tariffs compared to neighbouring countries. At the same time, several sectors, such as gems and pharmaceuticals, are exempt from tariffs. Speaking at a press conference, Goyal said, “Today will be written in golden words. There is a wave of happiness across the country. New opportunities are opening up on a very large scale, especially for our farmers, artisans, and manufacturers.” "A $30 trillion economy is now open to our exporters. This joint statement gives every Indian citizen an opportunity for new hope, enthusiasm, and new resolutions. The 50 per cent tariff that Indian exporters faced will now be only 18 per cent. We will have the lowest tariffs compared to our neighbouring countries. Exporters of gems and pharmaceuticals will face zero duty in the US," he said. The commerce minister assured that Indian farmers remain protected in this agreement, while Indian farm products will be exported to the United States at Zero duty. "Agricultural products from Indian farmers will be exported to the United States at zero duty. At the same time, no tariff concessions have been granted for agricultural products from US farmers entering the Indian market." Also Read: ‘Will attack their bases’: Iran’s BIG warning to Trump if US attacks Tehran “Products made by our farmers, including spices, tea, coffee, coconut, cashew, mango, banana, guava, pineapple, and processed items like jams and juices, will now face zero reciprocal tariff in the United States. Sensitive commodities like rice, wheat, sugar, millets, and pulses remain fully protected,” Goyal said. He emphasised that the agreement clearly states that "genetically modified (GM) food will not be allowed into India." Under the agreement, tariffs on a wide range of goods, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems & diamonds, and aircraft parts, will be reduced to zero. "Tariffs will go down to zero on a wide range of goods, including generic pharmaceuticals, gems & diamonds, and aircraft parts, thereby further enhancing India's export competitiveness and Make in India. India will also get exemptions under section 232 on aircraft parts, tariff rate quota on auto parts and negotiated outcomes on generic pharmaceuticals, leading to tangible export gains in these sectors," Goyal added.

Addressing a press conference on the interim framework of the India-US trade agreement, Goyal said that the Interests of farmers, MSMEs, artisans and craftsmen will remain protected.&nbsp;

‘Golden letter day’: Piyush Goyal hails India-US trade deal, rules out agriculture concessions

India and the US are on the verge of signing a landmark trade agreement described as ‘historic’ by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who said on Thursday (February 5) that final details are being worked out, and completion is expected very soon. The announcement came at the end of a productive visit to Washington by Jaishankar, during which he held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and attended the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial.&nbsp;In a social media post reflecting on the trip, Mr Jaishankar said: “The historic India-US trade deal is in the final stages of detailing that will be completed very soon. It opens up a new phase in our bilateral ties, with vast possibilities for the relationship.” He added that cooperation on critical minerals, essential materials like lithium, cobalt and rare earths used in electric vehicles, semiconductors and clean energy technologies, was ‘advancing rapidly’. Further engagements on strategic issues, defence and energy were anticipated in the coming days, with "strong momentum" evident overall.&nbsp;The comments follow high-level discussions amid efforts by the US to build alternative global supply chains for critical minerals, reducing reliance on dominant suppliers such as China. The ministerial, hosted by Mr Rubio, brought together representatives from dozens of countries to promote secure and diversified sourcing. India, with its significant geological potential and expanding industrial needs, has emerged as a key partner in these initiatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jaishankar expressed support for the US-launched Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE), part of the evolving critical minerals partnership framework. The prospective trade deal is seen as a major step in strengthening economic links between the world's two largest democracies. Under the deal, US reduces tariffs on certain Indian to 18%, from previous 50%. While specifics of the trade pact remain under wraps pending finalisation, Jaishankar's remarks signal optimism that the deal could be announced soon, possibly by March, accompanied by a joint statement.

'India-US 'historic' trade deal nears completion', says EAM Jaishankar

India and the US are on the verge of signing a landmark trade agreement described as ‘historic’ by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who said on Thursday (February 5) that final details are being worked out, and completion is expected very soon. The announcement came at the end of a productive visit to Washington by Jaishankar, during which he held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and attended the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial. In a social media post reflecting on the trip, Mr Jaishankar said: “The historic India-US trade deal is in the final stages of detailing that will be completed very soon. It opens up a new phase in our bilateral ties, with vast possibilities for the relationship.” He added that cooperation on critical minerals, essential materials like lithium, cobalt and rare earths used in electric vehicles, semiconductors and clean energy technologies, was ‘advancing rapidly’. Further engagements on strategic issues, defence and energy were anticipated in the coming days, with "strong momentum" evident overall. The comments follow high-level discussions amid efforts by the US to build alternative global supply chains for critical minerals, reducing reliance on dominant suppliers such as China. The ministerial, hosted by Mr Rubio, brought together representatives from dozens of countries to promote secure and diversified sourcing. India, with its significant geological potential and expanding industrial needs, has emerged as a key partner in these initiatives. Jaishankar expressed support for the US-launched Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE), part of the evolving critical minerals partnership framework. The prospective trade deal is seen as a major step in strengthening economic links between the world's two largest democracies. Under the deal, US reduces tariffs on certain Indian to 18%, from previous 50%. While specifics of the trade pact remain under wraps pending finalisation, Jaishankar's remarks signal optimism that the deal could be announced soon, possibly by March, accompanied by a joint statement.

The announcement came at the end of a productive visit to Washington by Jaishankar, during which he held talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and attended the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial

After US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 2) announced a new deal with India featuring lower reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from 50% for which New Delhi would need to halt purchases of Russian oil and sharply increase imports of American goods, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday that India remains open to exploring crude oil supplies from Venezuela and other sources.&nbsp;MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal replying to a question at a press conference held in Delhi said, "There is a history of engagement with Venezuela. We have a long-standing energy partnership with them, ‌and we ‌remain open to exploring options of availability of crude oil from Venezuela and ‌other places, depending on its commercial viability."&nbsp;He clearly said that energy security for its 1.4 billion people would be his government's top priority, especially in the current international dynamics in the energy sector.&nbsp;“In so far as India's energy security or sourcing is confirmed, the government has publicly on several occasions, including me here, that that ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion is the supreme priority of the government."&nbsp;“Diversifying our energy sourcing in keeping with objective market conditions and evolving international dynamics is at the core of our strategy to ensure this. All of India's decisions are taken and will be taken with this in mind,” he added further.<h2>India-US trade deal in final stages</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Union minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that United States and India have almost finalised the first tranche of a Bilateral Trade Agreement and a joint statement will be made in this regard in the next 4-5 days.&nbsp;“Very meaningful discussions are underway between India and the United States of America. Our two leaders have made a decision. The first tranche of our bilateral trade agreement is almost ready. We hope that in the next four to five days we will finalize and sign a joint statement between the United States and India,” Goyal said.&nbsp;He also said that a formal agreement in this regard will be signed in a month or two.&nbsp;Goyal pointed out that the new tariff of 18% would only be implemented after a joint statement is made by an executive order passed by the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clearly said that energy security for its 1.4 billion people would be his governments top priority, especially in the current international dynamics in the energy sector.

After US President Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 2) announced a new deal with India featuring lower reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from 50% for which New Delhi would need to halt purchases of Russian oil and sharply increase imports of American goods, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday that India remains open to exploring crude oil supplies from Venezuela and other sources. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal replying to a question at a press conference held in Delhi said, "There is a history of engagement with Venezuela. We have a long-standing energy partnership with them, ‌and we ‌remain open to exploring options of availability of crude oil from Venezuela and ‌other places, depending on its commercial viability." He clearly said that energy security for its 1.4 billion people would be his government's top priority, especially in the current international dynamics in the energy sector. “In so far as India's energy security or sourcing is confirmed, the government has publicly on several occasions, including me here, that that ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion is the supreme priority of the government." “Diversifying our energy sourcing in keeping with objective market conditions and evolving international dynamics is at the core of our strategy to ensure this. All of India's decisions are taken and will be taken with this in mind,” he added further. India-US trade deal in final stages Meanwhile, Union minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that United States and India have almost finalised the first tranche of a Bilateral Trade Agreement and a joint statement will be made in this regard in the next 4-5 days. “Very meaningful discussions are underway between India and the United States of America. Our two leaders have made a decision. The first tranche of our bilateral trade agreement is almost ready. We hope that in the next four to five days we will finalize and sign a joint statement between the United States and India,” Goyal said. He also said that a formal agreement in this regard will be signed in a month or two. Goyal pointed out that the new tariff of 18% would only be implemented after a joint statement is made by an executive order passed by the United States.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clearly said that energy security for its 1.4 billion people would be his government's top priority, especially in the current international dynamics in the energy sector.

India willing to buy oil from Venezuela but energy security priority; trade deal with US in final stages

Months ahead of the announcement of the India-US trade deal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval reportedly visited Washington, where he told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that India would not be bullied by US President Donald Trump and was willing to wait out till his term ended. This comes after Trump announced a trade deal between the US and India on Monday (Feb 2) after a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.According to a Bloomberg report, Doval told Rubio he wanted to get back to negotiations on the trade deal and put the acrimony between the two nations behind them. However, he warned him that India would not be bullied by Trump and his top aides, the outlet reported, citing officials in New Delhi familiar with the meeting.The NSA further told Rubio that India would also be willing to wait out Trump’s term, but wanted the US administration to dial down its public criticism so that relations between the two nations could be brought back on track.Reportedly, the meeting took place in early September, shortly after PM Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.Announcing the trade deal, Trump claimed that India “agreed to stop buying Russian Oil, and to buy much more from the United States and, potentially, Venezuela.”While PM Modi confirmed the trade deal, he did not mention any commitments regarding Russian oil purchases.“Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement. When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” PM Modi wrote on X.“President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights,” he added.

Months before the India-US trade deal, NSA Ajit Doval reportedly told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington that India would not be bullied by President Donald Trump and was prepared to wait out his term.

Months ahead of the announcement of the India-US trade deal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval reportedly visited Washington, where he told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that India would not be bullied by US President Donald Trump and was willing to wait out till his term ended. This comes after Trump announced a trade deal between the US and India on Monday (Feb 2) after a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to a Bloomberg report, Doval told Rubio he wanted to get back to negotiations on the trade deal and put the acrimony between the two nations behind them. However, he warned him that India would not be bullied by Trump and his top aides, the outlet reported, citing officials in New Delhi familiar with the meeting. The NSA further told Rubio that India would also be willing to wait out Trump’s term, but wanted the US administration to dial down its public criticism so that relations between the two nations could be brought back on track. Reportedly, the meeting took place in early September, shortly after PM Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Announcing the trade deal, Trump claimed that India “agreed to stop buying Russian Oil, and to buy much more from the United States and, potentially, Venezuela.” While PM Modi confirmed the trade deal, he did not mention any commitments regarding Russian oil purchases. “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement. When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” PM Modi wrote on X. “President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights,” he added.

Months before the India-US trade deal, NSA Ajit Doval reportedly told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington that India would not be bullied by President Donald Trump and was prepared to wait out his term.

Was India willing to wait out Trump’s term amid trade tensions with US? What Ajit Doval told Rubio

Days after India and the US announced a trade deal with US President Donald Trump claiming that New Delhi has agreed to stop buying Russian oil, Russia on Wednesday (Feb 4) said that India is “free to buy oil from any country” it wants. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that there is nothing new in its decision to diversify crude suppliers, adding that India had done it always. Peskov was responding to a question about Trump’s recent claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop buying Russian oil and instead shift purchases to the United States and possibly Venezuela.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/two-cheers-not-three-indo-us-trade-deal-is-a-half-way-house-1770109461746">Two cheers, not three: Indo-US trade deal is a half-way house</a>&nbsp;Peskov said, "India has always purchased these products from other countries. Therefore, we see nothing new here," he told. A day earlier, Peskov said that Russia had received no official statement from India suggesting it planned to halt Russian oil imports. Russia’s Foreign Ministry also underlined the value of the energy relationship. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that the hydrocarbons trade benefits both sides and helps maintain stability in global energy markets. “India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons is beneficial for both sides and helps maintain stability in the global energy market. We are ready to continue close cooperation with our Indian partners,” she said at a briefing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-all-citizens-are-thanking-pm-modi-for-a-successful-trade-deal-piyush-goal-on-india-us-trade-agreement-1770119536603">'All citizens are thanking PM Modi for a successful trade deal': Piyush Goyal on India-US trade agreement</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-trade-deal-pm-modi-confirms-revised-18-tariffs-but-details-awaited-1770140167121/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-trade-deal-pm-modi-confirms-revised-18-tariffs-but-details-awaited-1770140167121/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>India-US trade deal</h2>Prime Minister Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday (Feb 2) and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.” Trump claimed that India will stop buying Russian oil as the part of the deal. India or PM Modi has not commented on it yet. Trump, who had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports late last year and later doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent punishing Delhi for buying oil from Russia, reduced the tariffs to 18 per cent. The final text and technical details of the trade deal are still being "papered." Meanwhile, after the announcement, Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington.

India-US trade deal cuts tariffs to 18 per cent, after Donald Trump claimed India would stop buying Russian oil. Russia rejected the claim, saying India is free to buy oil from any country and has long diversified suppliers. India has not confirmed any halt to Russian imports.

Days after India and the US announced a trade deal with US President Donald Trump claiming that New Delhi has agreed to stop buying Russian oil, Russia on Wednesday (Feb 4) said that India is “free to buy oil from any country” it wants. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that there is nothing new in its decision to diversify crude suppliers, adding that India had done it always. Peskov was responding to a question about Trump’s recent claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop buying Russian oil and instead shift purchases to the United States and possibly Venezuela. Also Read: Two cheers, not three: Indo-US trade deal is a half-way house Peskov said, "India has always purchased these products from other countries. Therefore, we see nothing new here," he told. A day earlier, Peskov said that Russia had received no official statement from India suggesting it planned to halt Russian oil imports. Russia’s Foreign Ministry also underlined the value of the energy relationship. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that the hydrocarbons trade benefits both sides and helps maintain stability in global energy markets. “India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons is beneficial for both sides and helps maintain stability in the global energy market. We are ready to continue close cooperation with our Indian partners,” she said at a briefing. Also Read: 'All citizens are thanking PM Modi for a successful trade deal': Piyush Goyal on India-US trade agreement https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-trade-deal-pm-modi-confirms-revised-18-tariffs-but-details-awaited-1770140167121/embed India-US trade deal Prime Minister Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday (Feb 2) and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.” Trump claimed that India will stop buying Russian oil as the part of the deal. India or PM Modi has not commented on it yet. Trump, who had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports late last year and later doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent punishing Delhi for buying oil from Russia, reduced the tariffs to 18 per cent. The final text and technical details of the trade deal are still being "papered." Meanwhile, after the announcement, Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington.

India-US trade deal cuts tariffs to 18 per cent, after Donald Trump claimed India would stop buying Russian oil. Russia rejected the claim, saying India is free to buy oil from any country and has long diversified suppliers. India has not confirmed any halt to Russian imports.

'We see nothing new...': Kremlin breaks silence over Trump’s statement on India halting Russian oil purchases

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday (Feb 3) said that he held meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his high-level visit to Washington. In a post on X, Jaishankar said that he had "a useful discussion on advancement of India - US economic partnership and strategic cooperation" with Bessent, he mentioned that his discussion with Rubio centered around a wide ranging topics including bilateral cooperation agenda, regional and global issues. Jaishankar's meeting with the top men of the Trump administration comes US President Donald Trump announced a major trade deal with India after speaking with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, slashing reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent, effective immediately.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-trade-deal-pm-modi-confirms-revised-18-tariffs-but-details-awaited-1770140167121/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-trade-deal-pm-modi-confirms-revised-18-tariffs-but-details-awaited-1770140167121/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post, Jaishankar said that his meeting with Rubio underscored the facets of India - US Strategic Partnership including cooperation on trade, energy, nuclear, defence, critical minerals and technology. He also hinted at continuous engagements between the diplomats of both the countries saying that early meetings may be held of various mechanisms to advance shared interests.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260204/image-1770164711379.png"></figure>&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-trade-tariff-stalemate-broken-what-does-this-mean-for-new-delhi-and-its-economy-1770100909043">India US trade tariff stalemate ends, what does this mean for New Delhi and its economy</a>&nbsp;Soon after, Rubio also shared images with the Indian EAM and reiterated that they discussed bilateral cooperation on critical minerals exploration between the two countries. They also discussed scope to work together to unlock new economic opportunities between our two countries. “We also commended the trade deal between the United States and India,” Rubio said.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260204/image-1770164742161.png"></figure>EAM Jaishankar will also attend first Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington DC on Wednesday. It will bring together officials from more than 50 countries to strengthen cooperation on securing and diversifying global supply chains for key minerals, according to US State Department. Jaishankar's participation highlights India's role in the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and the new Pax Silica initiative aimed at securing AI and semiconductor supply chains.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eam-jaishankar-asserts-right-to-self-defence-against-terrorism-at-arab-fms-meet-1769880515632">EAM Jaishankar asserts right to self-defence against terrorism at Arab FMs’ meet</a><h2>India-US trade deal</h2>Prime Minister Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday (Feb 2) and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.” Trump claimed that India will stop buying Russian oil as the part of the deal. As part of the deal, Trump, who had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports late last year and later doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent punishing Delhi for buying oil from Russia, reduced the tariffs to 18 per cent. This puts India in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. The resilience of Indian negotiators finally ended on a happy note after months of trade tensions and inappropriate criticism from Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro several times. However, the final text and technical details of the trade deal are still being "papered."

India's S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington to deepen India-US economic and strategic ties. The talks followed a new trade deal cutting US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday (Feb 3) said that he held meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his high-level visit to Washington. In a post on X, Jaishankar said that he had "a useful discussion on advancement of India - US economic partnership and strategic cooperation" with Bessent, he mentioned that his discussion with Rubio centered around a wide ranging topics including bilateral cooperation agenda, regional and global issues. Jaishankar's meeting with the top men of the Trump administration comes US President Donald Trump announced a major trade deal with India after speaking with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, slashing reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent, effective immediately. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-trade-deal-pm-modi-confirms-revised-18-tariffs-but-details-awaited-1770140167121/embed In a post, Jaishankar said that his meeting with Rubio underscored the facets of India - US Strategic Partnership including cooperation on trade, energy, nuclear, defence, critical minerals and technology. He also hinted at continuous engagements between the diplomats of both the countries saying that early meetings may be held of various mechanisms to advance shared interests. Also Read: India US trade tariff stalemate ends, what does this mean for New Delhi and its economy Soon after, Rubio also shared images with the Indian EAM and reiterated that they discussed bilateral cooperation on critical minerals exploration between the two countries. They also discussed scope to work together to unlock new economic opportunities between our two countries. “We also commended the trade deal between the United States and India,” Rubio said. EAM Jaishankar will also attend first Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington DC on Wednesday. It will bring together officials from more than 50 countries to strengthen cooperation on securing and diversifying global supply chains for key minerals, according to US State Department. Jaishankar's participation highlights India's role in the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and the new Pax Silica initiative aimed at securing AI and semiconductor supply chains. Also Read: EAM Jaishankar asserts right to self-defence against terrorism at Arab FMs’ meet India-US trade deal Prime Minister Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday (Feb 2) and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity.” Trump claimed that India will stop buying Russian oil as the part of the deal. As part of the deal, Trump, who had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports late last year and later doubled the tariffs on India to 50 per cent punishing Delhi for buying oil from Russia, reduced the tariffs to 18 per cent. This puts India in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. The resilience of Indian negotiators finally ended on a happy note after months of trade tensions and inappropriate criticism from Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro several times. However, the final text and technical details of the trade deal are still being "papered."

India's S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Washington to deepen India-US economic and strategic ties. The talks followed a new trade deal cutting US tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent

From critical minerals to nuclear ties: What Jaishankar discussed with Rubio, Bessent after India-US trade deal

The United States has reduced import tariffs on Indian exports from 50% to 18%, a move hailed as a major win for India’s trade. Following the announcement, Indian stock markets surged to record highs, and the rupee strengthened, marking its biggest gain in over three years.


US Cuts India Export Tariffs to 18%; Indian Stocks Hit Record, Rupee Soars Over 3 Years

Amid uncertainty over the scope and specifics of the India–US trade deal announced by US President Donald Trump and subsequently confirmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday (February 3) shared insights into the deal. Addressing the media, Goyal asserted that the agreement would have wide-ranging benefits. “This deal will help everyone, all 140 crore Indians, from farmers to fisherfolk,” he said. He said that he had intended to brief Parliament on the matter, but refrained from doing so due to disruptions in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;&nbsp;“But you saw the ugly scenes witnessed in the Lok Sabha today,” he remarked, placing the blame on the Opposition. “I condemn Rahul Gandhi for what happened,” he added, referring to the uproar triggered by the Leader of the Opposition’s attempt to cite an unpublished book by former Army chief Gen MM Naravane. Despite repeatedly claiming the deal would benefit multiple sectors, Goyal did not disclose specific provisions. He later acknowledged that negotiations were still ongoing and said a joint statement would be released in due course.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-won-t-allow-privacy-of-any-citizen-to-be-compromised-supreme-court-slams-meta-1770118538789">'Won't allow privacy of any citizen to be compromised': Supreme Court slams Meta</a><h2>Goyal credits Modi's personal rapport with Trump for the deal</h2>Speaking on the substance of the trade deal, Goyal credited Prime Minister Modi’s personal rapport with the US president. “PM Modi used his friendship with Donald Trump to get the best deal among all the countries in the region, all countries that we compete with,” he said. He pointed to the pressures India had been facing before the agreement. “There were a lot of challenges. India was facing 50% tariffs; farmers were suffering; marine exporters were worried. Until a few days ago, Opposition leaders also had been asking us when the deal would happen,” Goyal noted.&nbsp;“We hadn't been able to get this deal for months, but PM Modi used his friendship to seal such a great deal, which will immensely benefit India,” he added. Responding to concerns that agriculture and dairy interests may have been compromised, Goyal insisted otherwise. “PM Modi has always looked out for the agriculture and dairy sectors, and he ensured that nothing bad happens to them,” he said. “PM Modi ensured that India's sensitive sectors, agriculture and dairy, were safeguarded and given attention in the deal.” He further claimed that coastal communities had already reacted positively. “Fishermen who export seafood celebrated in all coastal regions after the deal. This is a sign of how this deal heralds a bright future for India,” Goyal said, adding that engineering, textiles, marine products, and gems and jewellery were also expected to gain.<h2>Goyal attacks Opposition</h2>The minister then launched a direct attack on Opposition leaders, singling out Rahul Gandhi. “Rahul Gandhi is a negative person. He has a negative mentality. And any leader who joins hands with him — be it those from DMK or TMC — doesn't like a deal which will benefit so many sectors,” he said. He further asked, “Rahul Gandhi ko kya mirchi lagti hai? (Why does he feel the burn?) Does Rahul Gandhi have a problem with the country's growth?” Goyal went on to describe Gandhi’s outlook as “anti-national”. “The time has come for the citizens of the country to seek accountability from Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Stalin, Kanimozhi, Akhilesh Yadav,” he said, naming leaders from states expected to go to the polls within the next year.<h2>Agriculture sector in focus</h2>The most politically sensitive element of the agreement relates to agriculture, a sector that employs nearly half of India’s population and contributes about 18% to GDP. While the Indian government had earlier described agriculture as a non-negotiable “red line”, US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins characterised the agreement as a breakthrough that would open Indian markets to American farm products.&nbsp;Within India, BJP-led NDA leaders praised Modi as a “generational leader” who had “made history”. The Opposition, however, reacted sharply, with Rahul Gandhi alleging that the Prime Minister had “sold the country”. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh demanded that the full text of the agreement be tabled and debated in Parliament. As of Tuesday afternoon, the government had yet to release the complete details, though BJP president and Union minister JP Nadda assured lawmakers that a formal statement would be issued and a discussion held.

'All citizens are thanking PM Modi for a successful trade deal': Piyush Goyal on India-US trade agreement

Amid uncertainty over the scope and specifics of the India–US trade deal announced by US President Donald Trump and subsequently confirmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday (February 3) shared insights into the deal. Addressing the media, Goyal asserted that the agreement would have wide-ranging benefits. “This deal will help everyone, all 140 crore Indians, from farmers to fisherfolk,” he said. He said that he had intended to brief Parliament on the matter, but refrained from doing so due to disruptions in the Lok Sabha. “But you saw the ugly scenes witnessed in the Lok Sabha today,” he remarked, placing the blame on the Opposition. “I condemn Rahul Gandhi for what happened,” he added, referring to the uproar triggered by the Leader of the Opposition’s attempt to cite an unpublished book by former Army chief Gen MM Naravane. Despite repeatedly claiming the deal would benefit multiple sectors, Goyal did not disclose specific provisions. He later acknowledged that negotiations were still ongoing and said a joint statement would be released in due course. Also Read: 'Won't allow privacy of any citizen to be compromised': Supreme Court slams Meta Goyal credits Modi's personal rapport with Trump for the deal Speaking on the substance of the trade deal, Goyal credited Prime Minister Modi’s personal rapport with the US president. “PM Modi used his friendship with Donald Trump to get the best deal among all the countries in the region, all countries that we compete with,” he said. He pointed to the pressures India had been facing before the agreement. “There were a lot of challenges. India was facing 50% tariffs; farmers were suffering; marine exporters were worried. Until a few days ago, Opposition leaders also had been asking us when the deal would happen,” Goyal noted. “We hadn't been able to get this deal for months, but PM Modi used his friendship to seal such a great deal, which will immensely benefit India,” he added. Responding to concerns that agriculture and dairy interests may have been compromised, Goyal insisted otherwise. “PM Modi has always looked out for the agriculture and dairy sectors, and he ensured that nothing bad happens to them,” he said. “PM Modi ensured that India's sensitive sectors, agriculture and dairy, were safeguarded and given attention in the deal.” He further claimed that coastal communities had already reacted positively. “Fishermen who export seafood celebrated in all coastal regions after the deal. This is a sign of how this deal heralds a bright future for India,” Goyal said, adding that engineering, textiles, marine products, and gems and jewellery were also expected to gain. Goyal attacks Opposition The minister then launched a direct attack on Opposition leaders, singling out Rahul Gandhi. “Rahul Gandhi is a negative person. He has a negative mentality. And any leader who joins hands with him — be it those from DMK or TMC — doesn't like a deal which will benefit so many sectors,” he said. He further asked, “Rahul Gandhi ko kya mirchi lagti hai? (Why does he feel the burn?) Does Rahul Gandhi have a problem with the country's growth?” Goyal went on to describe Gandhi’s outlook as “anti-national”. “The time has come for the citizens of the country to seek accountability from Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Stalin, Kanimozhi, Akhilesh Yadav,” he said, naming leaders from states expected to go to the polls within the next year. Agriculture sector in focus The most politically sensitive element of the agreement relates to agriculture, a sector that employs nearly half of India’s population and contributes about 18% to GDP. While the Indian government had earlier described agriculture as a non-negotiable “red line”, US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins characterised the agreement as a breakthrough that would open Indian markets to American farm products. Within India, BJP-led NDA leaders praised Modi as a “generational leader” who had “made history”. The Opposition, however, reacted sharply, with Rahul Gandhi alleging that the Prime Minister had “sold the country”. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh demanded that the full text of the agreement be tabled and debated in Parliament. As of Tuesday afternoon, the government had yet to release the complete details, though BJP president and Union minister JP Nadda assured lawmakers that a formal statement would be issued and a discussion held.

Minister of Commerce and Industry of India, Piyush Goyal, during a press conference on Tuesday (February 3) said that the trade deal between India-US will make the future of India a prosperous one

Who really blinked? That must be a question on many minds after President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted and tweeted to announce what looked like the contours of a much-delayed Indo-US trade agreement. But don’t look for the answer just yet.&nbsp;There are quite a few uncertainties looming over the deal, that the only thing that can be said with a degree of certainty is that both parties have agreed that it is better to do business with each other in a long-standing strategic relationship, rather than prolong a months-long standoff on tariffs and much else in geopolitics that cast a long shadow over ties between the world’s two biggest democracies. India, with the US as its largest trading partner, had much at stake.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-trade-tariff-stalemate-broken-what-does-this-mean-for-new-delhi-and-its-economy-1770100909043/amp">India US trade tariff stalemate ends, what does this mean for New Delhi and its economy</a>&nbsp;Right now, it is a moment for sentimental appreciation. India’s stock market, which plunged on a marginal tweak-up in the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) in Sunday’s budget announcements, are up nearly 3 per cent in an overnight mood makeover. What really matters in the long run, however, would be a sector-wise list of winners and losers.&nbsp;On the one hand, there is a case for seeing this as a TACO (Trump Always Chickens Out) moment in which the White House incumbent goes back on his early bombast, but claims victory after a climbdown. On the other hand, the troubles are not over for India. As a source close to the negotiators from the Indian side says: Eighteen is the new zero!&nbsp;Trump has essentially rolled back his big “reciprocal tariff” hit from 25% to 18% apart from dropping his additional “punitive surcharge” of 25% linked to Russian oil purchases in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict. But it is not quite the same as nil. As the source says, what we have is a “very limited agreement” restricted to the narrow Washington interest in goods that were already in the works but were stuck in a clash of attitudes. The bottom line: while the US has got away with zero duty on a few items, India may have to contend with the “new zero”.&nbsp;Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dials-indian-pm-modi-says-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-1770048397476">‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18%</a>&nbsp;What we are seeing, as note in stock movements, is a sigh of relief in export-oriented Indian sectors such as apparel, chemicals, textiles and engineering goods that were stopped on their tracks by the steep tariffs.&nbsp;The limited agreement resembles a discount sale in an online marketplace -- more of an alluring advertising opportunity than a real bargain.&nbsp;Trump’s social media boast that India has agreed to slash Russian oil purchases while buying more from the US and Venezuela is full of diplomatic pinpricks, given that it subjects India into a trade blackmail. Nevertheless, the rollback is a confirmation that the US gave way after India’s posturing signalling a step-up of relations with Moscow and the China-centric Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. India is yet to give up Russian oil purchases, though they are down. From all indications, Venezuela is just a boast factor for Trump, as the oil reserves in that country are of a poor quality and involve steep cost considerations for refiners.&nbsp;There are more questions hanging in the air. What happens to US visa restrictions that have stymied India’s information technology exports, or, for that matter, rants by Trump’s far-right Republican supporters against immigration that borders on racism even against Indian Americans? Given that the Indian rupee has weakened in recent months against the US dollar, one wonders how much the competitiveness and profit margins of India’s merchandise exports eroded by 18% tariffs will be offset by the currency gain.&nbsp;In the backdrop, we have everything from artificial intelligence (AI) and its future gains and the US-led ‘Pax Silica’ which Washington launched last month to secure supply chains for semiconductors and AI to counter China’s grip on critical minerals. India is yet to join the Western alliance and there is reason to believe Trump’s climbdown also factored in the need to include India in the alliance given its significant clout in the software revolution of which AI is only the next frontier.&nbsp;Unlike the recently concluded India-European Union free trade agreement (FTA), the trade deal with the US is not a signed and sealed agreement yet. Geopolitical issues hang in the air, particularly on Washington’s wish to make India abandon its work in Iran’s Chabahar port. The extraordinary warmth Trump showed with Pakistan’s military chief Asim Munir and Islamabad’s establishment last year in the wake of India’s Operation Sindoor retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir cannot be forgotten in a hurry.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-us-ties-trump-announces-trade-deal-with-india-after-pm-modi-call-1770056451367">India-US Ties: Trump Announces Trade Deal with India After PM Modi Call</a>&nbsp;Trump’s sweeping claim that India had agreed to reducing its tariffs and non-tariff barriers to zero and buying various US goods including energy products worth “more than $500 billion” are too vague to be accepted or dismissed at face value. We will have to wait and see. No time horizon has been cited.&nbsp;What remains is the ground reality: Geopolitically and economically, and given the nature of emerging technologies and America’s priority to contain China, India remains important for whoever sits in the White House. Besides, it is difficult to imagine the US without Silicon Valley, whose technology pioneers are unlikely to stomach for long a president seen hostile to India.&nbsp;But that is hardly a victory for the Modi government. It is more like some elbow room that needs to be utilised properly. Perhaps we can say the same about Trump whose Republicans face mid-term Congressional elections later this year. We are living in a diplomatically volatile world beset with technological uncertainties and inward-looking politics everywhere. The dust won’t settle so soon.

Who really blinked? That must be a question on many minds after President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted and tweeted to announce a trade deal. There are quite a few uncertainties looming over the deal. Right now, it is a moment for sentimental appreciation.

Who really blinked? That must be a question on many minds after President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted and tweeted to announce what looked like the contours of a much-delayed Indo-US trade agreement. But don’t look for the answer just yet. There are quite a few uncertainties looming over the deal, that the only thing that can be said with a degree of certainty is that both parties have agreed that it is better to do business with each other in a long-standing strategic relationship, rather than prolong a months-long standoff on tariffs and much else in geopolitics that cast a long shadow over ties between the world’s two biggest democracies. India, with the US as its largest trading partner, had much at stake. Also Read: India US trade tariff stalemate ends, what does this mean for New Delhi and its economy Right now, it is a moment for sentimental appreciation. India’s stock market, which plunged on a marginal tweak-up in the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) in Sunday’s budget announcements, are up nearly 3 per cent in an overnight mood makeover. What really matters in the long run, however, would be a sector-wise list of winners and losers. On the one hand, there is a case for seeing this as a TACO (Trump Always Chickens Out) moment in which the White House incumbent goes back on his early bombast, but claims victory after a climbdown. On the other hand, the troubles are not over for India. As a source close to the negotiators from the Indian side says: Eighteen is the new zero! Trump has essentially rolled back his big “reciprocal tariff” hit from 25% to 18% apart from dropping his additional “punitive surcharge” of 25% linked to Russian oil purchases in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict. But it is not quite the same as nil. As the source says, what we have is a “very limited agreement” restricted to the narrow Washington interest in goods that were already in the works but were stuck in a clash of attitudes. The bottom line: while the US has got away with zero duty on a few items, India may have to contend with the “new zero”. Also Read: ‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18% What we are seeing, as note in stock movements, is a sigh of relief in export-oriented Indian sectors such as apparel, chemicals, textiles and engineering goods that were stopped on their tracks by the steep tariffs. The limited agreement resembles a discount sale in an online marketplace -- more of an alluring advertising opportunity than a real bargain. Trump’s social media boast that India has agreed to slash Russian oil purchases while buying more from the US and Venezuela is full of diplomatic pinpricks, given that it subjects India into a trade blackmail. Nevertheless, the rollback is a confirmation that the US gave way after India’s posturing signalling a step-up of relations with Moscow and the China-centric Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. India is yet to give up Russian oil purchases, though they are down. From all indications, Venezuela is just a boast factor for Trump, as the oil reserves in that country are of a poor quality and involve steep cost considerations for refiners. There are more questions hanging in the air. What happens to US visa restrictions that have stymied India’s information technology exports, or, for that matter, rants by Trump’s far-right Republican supporters against immigration that borders on racism even against Indian Americans? Given that the Indian rupee has weakened in recent months against the US dollar, one wonders how much the competitiveness and profit margins of India’s merchandise exports eroded by 18% tariffs will be offset by the currency gain. In the backdrop, we have everything from artificial intelligence (AI) and its future gains and the US-led ‘Pax Silica’ which Washington launched last month to secure supply chains for semiconductors and AI to counter China’s grip on critical minerals. India is yet to join the Western alliance and there is reason to believe Trump’s climbdown also factored in the need to include India in the alliance given its significant clout in the software revolution of which AI is only the next frontier. Unlike the recently concluded India-European Union free trade agreement (FTA), the trade deal with the US is not a signed and sealed agreement yet. Geopolitical issues hang in the air, particularly on Washington’s wish to make India abandon its work in Iran’s Chabahar port. The extraordinary warmth Trump showed with Pakistan’s military chief Asim Munir and Islamabad’s establishment last year in the wake of India’s Operation Sindoor retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir cannot be forgotten in a hurry. Also Read: India-US Ties: Trump Announces Trade Deal with India After PM Modi Call Trump’s sweeping claim that India had agreed to reducing its tariffs and non-tariff barriers to zero and buying various US goods including energy products worth “more than $500 billion” are too vague to be accepted or dismissed at face value. We will have to wait and see. No time horizon has been cited. What remains is the ground reality: Geopolitically and economically, and given the nature of emerging technologies and America’s priority to contain China, India remains important for whoever sits in the White House. Besides, it is difficult to imagine the US without Silicon Valley, whose technology pioneers are unlikely to stomach for long a president seen hostile to India. But that is hardly a victory for the Modi government. It is more like some elbow room that needs to be utilised properly. Perhaps we can say the same about Trump whose Republicans face mid-term Congressional elections later this year. We are living in a diplomatically volatile world beset with technological uncertainties and inward-looking politics everywhere. The dust won’t settle so soon.

Who really blinked? That must be a question on many minds after President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted and tweeted to announce a trade deal. There are quite a few uncertainties looming over the deal. Right now, it is a moment for sentimental appreciation.

Two cheers, not three: Indo-US trade deal is a half-way house

India and US finally broke the trade deal stalemate as Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 2) announced a new deal with India featuring lower reciprocal tariffs. This slashes the tariffs from 50% to 18% for India. Under this agreement New Delhi would need to halt purchases of Russian oil and sharply increase imports of American goods.&nbsp;Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.&nbsp;The tariff reduction by the US was confirmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to X to say, “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement."<h2>What does the slash in US tariff mean for India?</h2>This lowering of tariffs from 50% to 18% gives India an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies like Indonesia that faces tariff of 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, China 34% and Pakistan 19%.&nbsp;The new trade deal is effective immediately.&nbsp;While India as claimed by Trump will cut tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US goods to zero. It will also buy over $500 billion in US goods and energy, including coal, along with technology, agricultural and other products.&nbsp;But what is to be noted is that the duties levied by the US on trade with India are still higher when compared to European partners like Japan and South Korea.&nbsp;The new trade deal, according to External Affairs Minister will boost &nbsp;boost job creation, spur economic growth, promote innovation and give a fillip to the &nbsp;'Make in India' initiative.&nbsp;Welcoming to move Jaishankar took to X to write, "This will create more jobs, spur growth and promote innovation in both economies. It will strengthen 'Make in India' endeavours and encourage trusted technology ties."&nbsp;

US president Donald Trump doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.

India and US finally broke the trade deal stalemate as Donald Trump on Monday (Feb 2) announced a new deal with India featuring lower reciprocal tariffs. This slashes the tariffs from 50% to 18% for India. Under this agreement New Delhi would need to halt purchases of Russian oil and sharply increase imports of American goods. Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. The tariff reduction by the US was confirmed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to X to say, “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement." What does the slash in US tariff mean for India? This lowering of tariffs from 50% to 18% gives India an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies like Indonesia that faces tariff of 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, China 34% and Pakistan 19%. The new trade deal is effective immediately. While India as claimed by Trump will cut tariffs and non-tariff barriers on US goods to zero. It will also buy over $500 billion in US goods and energy, including coal, along with technology, agricultural and other products. But what is to be noted is that the duties levied by the US on trade with India are still higher when compared to European partners like Japan and South Korea. The new trade deal, according to External Affairs Minister will boost boost job creation, spur economic growth, promote innovation and give a fillip to the 'Make in India' initiative. Welcoming to move Jaishankar took to X to write, "This will create more jobs, spur growth and promote innovation in both economies. It will strengthen 'Make in India' endeavours and encourage trusted technology ties."

US president Donald Trump doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.

India-US trade tariff stalemate ends, what does this mean for New Delhi and its economy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity”.&nbsp;“Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement,” PM Modi wrote on X.&nbsp;<h2>‘Two large economies and world’s largest democracies…’</h2>&nbsp;“When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” the PM added.“President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights,” the Indian PM added further on his social media post.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dials-indian-pm-modi-says-us-ambassador-sergio-gor-1770048397476">‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18%</a>&nbsp;Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine.&nbsp;<h2>Trade deal, tariff reduction huge fillip for India&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies.&nbsp;&nbsp;India now has lower tariffs compared to several competing economies. After the announcement, US tariffs on India are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-rogue-drone-sightings-near-uk-military-bases-doubled-in-2025-troops-to-get-shooting-down-powers-1770050063503">‘Rogue drone’ sightings near UK military bases doubled in 2025, troops to get shooting down powers</a>&nbsp;The resilience of Indian negotiators finally ended on a happy note after months of trade tensions and inappropriate criticism from Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro several times.&nbsp;PM Modi and Trump had spoken on multiple instances in recent times, raising hopes of the trade deal being sealed eventually.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Limitless potential,’ says US Ambassador Sergio Gor</h2>&nbsp;The deal comes just days after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor took charge. Just a few minutes before Trump announced the deal, Gor wrote on his handle on X, “President Trump just spoke to PM Modi. STAY TUNED...”&nbsp;After the trade deal announcement, Gor hailed the development and said the relationship between the United States and India has “limitless potential”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-masoud-pezeshkian-orders-start-of-nuclear-talks-with-us-report-1770037263043">Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report</a>&nbsp;In his following post on X, the US Ambassador wrote, “As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has LIMITLESS POTENTIAL!”&nbsp;Gor also confirmed that the US tariffs had in fact come down from 50 per cent to 18 per cent.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-stash-reveals-norway-diplomat-terje-r-d-larsen-s-derogatory-remark-on-indians-social-media-erupts-1770028653881">Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts</a>&nbsp;When asked by CNN News 18 whether the additional 25 per cent tariffs on India have been removed, Gor said, “That is correct. As you saw in the Truth of the President wrote, part of the agreement is that all nations around the world stop buying oil from Russia in order to bring peace. I know the Prime Minister deeply cares about bringing peace in that conflict, as does President Trump. So the number as it gets finalised will be 18 per cent.”&nbsp;In his Truth Social post, Trump had only mentioned that reciprocal tariffs were being reduced from 25 per cent to 18 per cent with no clarification on the status of the additional 25 per cent tariffs imposed on India later for buying Russian oil. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar also hailed the deal and retweeted PM Modi’s post on X.

The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. US tariffs on India now are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the trade deal with the United States on Monday and appreciated President Donald Trump’s leadership, terming it “vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity”. “Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement,” PM Modi wrote on X. ‘Two large economies and world’s largest democracies…’ “When two large economies and the world’s largest democracies work together, it benefits our people and unlocks immense opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation,” the PM added. “President Trump’s leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace. I look forward to working closely with him to take our partnership to unprecedented heights,” the Indian PM added further on his social media post. Also Read: ‘We agreed to trade deal’: Trump dials PM Modi, reduces tariffs on India from 25% to 18% Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports late last year as his deadline to sign a deal with countries had lapsed. Trump later doubled the tariffs on India to 50% as he accused Delhi of continuing to buy oil from Russia and thereby supporting Moscow in its war against Ukraine. Trade deal, tariff reduction huge fillip for India The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. India now has lower tariffs compared to several competing economies. After the announcement, US tariffs on India are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%. Also Read: ‘Rogue drone’ sightings near UK military bases doubled in 2025, troops to get shooting down powers The resilience of Indian negotiators finally ended on a happy note after months of trade tensions and inappropriate criticism from Trump’s trade adviser Peter Navarro several times. PM Modi and Trump had spoken on multiple instances in recent times, raising hopes of the trade deal being sealed eventually. ‘Limitless potential,’ says US Ambassador Sergio Gor The deal comes just days after US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor took charge. Just a few minutes before Trump announced the deal, Gor wrote on his handle on X, “President Trump just spoke to PM Modi. STAY TUNED...” After the trade deal announcement, Gor hailed the development and said the relationship between the United States and India has “limitless potential”. Also Read: Iran‘s President Masoud Pezeshkian orders start of nuclear talks with US: Report In his following post on X, the US Ambassador wrote, “As I have said many times, President Trump genuinely considers Prime Minister Modi a great friend! Thrilled by the news of the trade deal this evening. The relationship between the United States and India has LIMITLESS POTENTIAL!” Gor also confirmed that the US tariffs had in fact come down from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. Also Read: Epstein files stash reveals Norway diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen’s derogatory remark on ‘Indians’; social media erupts When asked by CNN News 18 whether the additional 25 per cent tariffs on India have been removed, Gor said, “That is correct. As you saw in the Truth of the President wrote, part of the agreement is that all nations around the world stop buying oil from Russia in order to bring peace. I know the Prime Minister deeply cares about bringing peace in that conflict, as does President Trump. So the number as it gets finalised will be 18 per cent.” In his Truth Social post, Trump had only mentioned that reciprocal tariffs were being reduced from 25 per cent to 18 per cent with no clarification on the status of the additional 25 per cent tariffs imposed on India later for buying Russian oil. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar also hailed the deal and retweeted PM Modi’s post on X.

The trade deal with the United States is a huge fillip for India, and the reduction in tariffs from 50% to 18% puts it in an advantageous position in comparison to competing economies. US tariffs on India now are 18%, while Indonesia faces 19%, Vietnam 20%, Bangladesh 20%, and China 34%.

PM Modi thanks Trump, as US tariffs on Indian exports come down from 50% to 18%

As negotiations over the India-US trade deal drag on due to several contentious issues like greater access to US dairy and agriculture products, the pulses or dal may become another bone of contention between the two sides after two American senators wrote to Presiident Doanld Trump to push New Delhi to quash a 30 per cent import duty on the US pulses. In a letter dated 16 January, senators Kevin Cramer of North Dakota and Steve Daines of Montana urged Trump to take up the issue of "favourable pulses crop provision" in future agreements between Washington and New Delhi, saying that the US pulse crop producers face a significant competitive disadvantage when exporting their high-quality product to India.&nbsp;The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect in late August.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India announced on October 30, 2025, that it would impose a 30 per cent tariff on yellow peas. The higher duty went into effect on November 1, 2025. As a result of the unfair Indian tariffs, US pulse crop producers could face a significant competitive disadvantage when exporting their high-quality product to India, the letter reads.&nbsp;The senators mentioned their earlier letter on the same issue during Trump's first term, which he hand-delivered to Prime Minister Modi during the 2020 trade negotiatiation leading to bringing "US producers to the table".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-hindu-man-killed-in-bangladesh-30-year-old-ripon-shaha-run-over-by-suv-at-fuel-station-hindus-targated-targated-killings-1768656284472">Another Hindu man killed in Bangladesh; 30-year-old Ripon Shaha run over by SUV at fuel station</a>&nbsp;The lawmaker pointed out that India, being the largest consumer of these crops, with around 27 per cent of the world's consumption, can be advantageous for the American farmers by exporting these commodities and "can boost trade disparities with the US."&nbsp;India faced some of the highest levies imposed by Trump. Initially hit with a 25 per cent tariff, the United States doubled the duty to 50 per cent in August 2025, adding a punitive surcharge linked to New Delhi’s continued Russian oil imports. The 50 per cent rate applies to key exports including textiles, gems and jewellery, footwear, furniture and chemicals, while sectors such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, tea, coffee and spices have received exemptions.

The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect.

As negotiations over the India-US trade deal drag on due to several contentious issues like greater access to US dairy and agriculture products, the pulses or dal may become another bone of contention between the two sides after two American senators wrote to Presiident Doanld Trump to push New Delhi to quash a 30 per cent import duty on the US pulses. In a letter dated 16 January, senators Kevin Cramer of North Dakota and Steve Daines of Montana urged Trump to take up the issue of "favourable pulses crop provision" in future agreements between Washington and New Delhi, saying that the US pulse crop producers face a significant competitive disadvantage when exporting their high-quality product to India. The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect in late August.

The letter brought India's countermeasures against Trump's punitive 50 per cent tariffs to light as it went unnoticed by the media. New Delhi announced additional tariffs on US crops after the US President's escalated levies took effect.

India-US trade deal: American senators write to Trump, urge him to press Modi on lowering tariffs on pulses

The Ministry of External Affairs, in its weekly media briefing on Friday (January 9), stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Donald Trump eight times in 2025, amid strained New Delhi-Washington ties over the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and tariffs. While the statement was not directly in reply to the claims made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick that US-India FTA negotiations were not moving forward because 'PM Modi didn't call President Trump', it seemed in that context. &nbsp;“We have seen the remarks. India and the US were committed to negotiating a bilateral trade agreement as far back as February 13, 2025. Since then, the two sides have held multiple rounds of negotiations to arrive at a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement. On several occasions, we have been close to a deal. The characterisation of these discussions in the reported remarks is not accurate," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told the reporters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonamarg-transforms-into-winter-paradise-as-kashmir-tourism-bounces-back-1767960350503">Sonamarg transforms into winter paradise as Kashmir tourism bounces back</a>&nbsp;The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said that Modi and Trump spoke over the phone eight times last year, discussing a wide range of topics. "We remain interested in a mutually beneficial trade deal between the two complementary economies. We look forward to concluding it. Incidentally, Prime Minister and President Trump have also spoken on the phone on 8 occasions during 2025, covering different aspects of our wide-ranging partnership,” MEA spokesperson further said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ed-vs-mamata-banerjee-west-bengal-cm-leads-rally-in-kolkata-against-ed-action-1767960352355/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ed-vs-mamata-banerjee-west-bengal-cm-leads-rally-in-kolkata-against-ed-action-1767960352355/embed</a>&nbsp;Speaking on Chamath Palihapitiya’s All In podcast on Thursday (January 8), Lutnick said that he had suggested Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reach out to Donald Trump to finalise the agreement. According to him, New Delhi was reluctant to take that step, and as a result, “so Modi didn't call”. He added that while the US has already finished trade agreements with Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, he had expected India’s deal to be wrapped up even earlier. Explaining the sequencing, Lutnick said, “We did Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and we announced a whole bunch of deals. So we did this whole bunch of deals because we negotiated them and assumed India was going to be done before them. I have negotiated them at a higher rate.”

MEA on Friday (January 9) said PM Modi and Trump spoke eight times in 2025, rejecting US claims talks stalled as the Indian PM didn’t call

The Ministry of External Affairs, in its weekly media briefing on Friday (January 9), stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Donald Trump eight times in 2025, amid strained New Delhi-Washington ties over the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and tariffs. While the statement was not directly in reply to the claims made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick that US-India FTA negotiations were not moving forward because 'PM Modi didn't call President Trump', it seemed in that context. “We have seen the remarks. India and the US were committed to negotiating a bilateral trade agreement as far back as February 13, 2025. Since then, the two sides have held multiple rounds of negotiations to arrive at a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement. On several occasions, we have been close to a deal. The characterisation of these discussions in the reported remarks is not accurate," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told the reporters. Also Read: Sonamarg transforms into winter paradise as Kashmir tourism bounces back The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said that Modi and Trump spoke over the phone eight times last year, discussing a wide range of topics. "We remain interested in a mutually beneficial trade deal between the two complementary economies. We look forward to concluding it. Incidentally, Prime Minister and President Trump have also spoken on the phone on 8 occasions during 2025, covering different aspects of our wide-ranging partnership,” MEA spokesperson further said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ed-vs-mamata-banerjee-west-bengal-cm-leads-rally-in-kolkata-against-ed-action-1767960352355/embed Speaking on Chamath Palihapitiya’s All In podcast on Thursday (January 8), Lutnick said that he had suggested Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reach out to Donald Trump to finalise the agreement. According to him, New Delhi was reluctant to take that step, and as a result, “so Modi didn't call”. He added that while the US has already finished trade agreements with Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, he had expected India’s deal to be wrapped up even earlier. Explaining the sequencing, Lutnick said, “We did Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and we announced a whole bunch of deals. So we did this whole bunch of deals because we negotiated them and assumed India was going to be done before them. I have negotiated them at a higher rate.”

MEA on Friday (January 9) said PM Modi and Trump spoke eight times in 2025, rejecting US claims talks stalled as the Indian PM didn’t call

'Modi, Trump spoke 8 times last year': MEA counters US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claims over India-US trade talks

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has blamed the collapse of a proposed India–US trade deal on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While appearing on a podcast, Donald Trump's commerce secretary said that the trade deal did not materialise because Modi never made a personal call to the POTUS.<h2>Modi to blame for India-US trade deal failure?</h2>Speaking on the All In Podcast, Lutnick said the agreement was essentially ready but stalled because the final political outreach never happened. "I set the deal up," he said, adding that he had asked Indian officials to get Modi to call Trump, but "They (India) were uncomfortable with it. So, Modi didn't call."According to Lutnick, Washington had assumed India would be among the first countries to wrap up a trade agreement under Trump's second term. On that assumption, the US pushed ahead with negotiations with other nations at higher rates. Deals with Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam were concluded first, and at tariff levels that later complicated talks with New Delhi.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pulls-us-out-of-66-organisations-and-treaties-including-india-led-international-solar-alliance-1767847347430">US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance</a>"So that Friday left. The middle of the next week we did Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam. We announced a whole bunch of deals," Lutnick said. "And because we negotiated them and assumed India was gonna be done before them... I had negotiated them at a higher rate."He added that the conditions India believed were still on offer were no longer valid. "So now the problem is the deals came out at a higher rate and then India calls back it says oh, 'okay, We're ready,' I said ready for what?" Lutnick said. India has yet to formally respond to Lutnick’s remarks.&nbsp;Watch what he said here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark" data-dnt="true" align="center">BIG BREAKING: India trade deal isn&#39;t done because PM Modi did not call Trump, claims US Commerce Secretary Lutnick &quot;I set the deal up. But you had to have Modi call President Trump. They (India) were uncomfortable with it. So Modi didn&#39;t call.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/gFiUGGaJRl">pic.twitter.com/gFiUGGaJRl</a>&mdash; Shashank Mattoo (@MattooShashank) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattooShashank/status/2009474733818232944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What now?</h2>Lutnick said that the US has now "stepped back from that trade deal that we had agreed to earlier. We are not thinking about it anymore."The US Commerce secretary's comments come on the heels of a bipartisan Russia sanctions bill approved by Trump on Wednesday (Jan 7) that targets countries buying Russian oil. The legislation, penned by senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, authorises tariffs of up to 500 per cent on imports from countries like India.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-pm-modi-is-not-happy-with-me-over-tariffs-says-trump-but-assures-continued-strong-ties-1767726513565">'PM Modi is not happy with me over tariffs,' says Trump, but assures strong ties</a>Explicitly naming India, China and Brazil, Lutnick said that the bill would give Trump "tremendous leverage" to incentivise these nations to stop buying the cheap Russian oil that "provides the financing for Putin's bloodbath against Ukraine".Recently, while speaking to reporters, Trump said Modi knew he (POTUS) was unhappy with India's oil imports from Russia and warned tariffs could be raised "very quickly." Trade talks between the two nations fell apart in 2025, when Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, the highest rate imposed on any major economy. That included a 25 per cent retaliatory levy tied directly to India's continued purchases of Russian oil.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says an India-US trade deal collapsed because PM Narendra Modi never personally called President Donald Trump. The deal, once ready, fell apart as Washington moved on, he claimed. Watch what he said here.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has blamed the collapse of a proposed India–US trade deal on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While appearing on a podcast, Donald Trump's commerce secretary said that the trade deal did not materialise because Modi never made a personal call to the POTUS. Modi to blame for India-US trade deal failure? Speaking on the All In Podcast, Lutnick said the agreement was essentially ready but stalled because the final political outreach never happened. "I set the deal up," he said, adding that he had asked Indian officials to get Modi to call Trump, but "They (India) were uncomfortable with it. So, Modi didn't call." According to Lutnick, Washington had assumed India would be among the first countries to wrap up a trade agreement under Trump's second term. On that assumption, the US pushed ahead with negotiations with other nations at higher rates. Deals with Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam were concluded first, and at tariff levels that later complicated talks with New Delhi. Also read | US exits 66 orgs and treaties, including India-led International Solar Alliance "So that Friday left. The middle of the next week we did Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam. We announced a whole bunch of deals," Lutnick said. "And because we negotiated them and assumed India was gonna be done before them... I had negotiated them at a higher rate." He added that the conditions India believed were still on offer were no longer valid. "So now the problem is the deals came out at a higher rate and then India calls back it says oh, 'okay, We're ready,' I said ready for what?" Lutnick said. India has yet to formally respond to Lutnick’s remarks. Watch what he said here:

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says an India-US trade deal collapsed because PM Narendra Modi never personally called President Donald Trump. The deal, once ready, fell apart as Washington moved on, he claimed. Watch what he said here.

India lost a major trade deal with US because of ‘no call from Modi’, says Trump aide Lutnick

United States President Donald Trump said on Monday (Nov 11) that the US is getting close to reaching a trade deal with India. The US president said that the deal would expand economic and security ties between the two countries, boost American energy exports and promote investments in key US sectors. Trump spoke to reporters during the swearing-in ceremony of Sergio Gor, the new US Ambassador to India, at the Oval Office.&nbsp;"We’re making a deal with India. Much different than we had. Right now they don’t love me but they will love us again. We’re getting a fair deal. They’re very good negotiators, so Sergio, you will have to take a look at that. I think we’re pretty close to doing a deal that is good for everybody," Trump said. Speaking to reporters later, Trump also repeated the claims of India stopping the purchase of Russian oil, "Well, right now, the tariffs are very high on India because of the Russian oil, and they’ve stopped doing the Russian oil. It’s been reduced very substantially. Yeah, we’re going to be bringing the tariffs down. At some point, we’re going to be bringing them down," he said.&nbsp;Praising India as "one of the world's oldest civilisations" and "the largest country in the world", United States President Donald Trump presided over the swearing-in ceremony of Sergio Gor as the next US Ambassador to India, underscoring the vital importance of the US-India partnership Trump said he was entrusting Gor to further strengthen strategic, economic, and security ties with New Delhi, while deepening America's "fantastic relationship" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;Present at the swearing-in ceremony were US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary Scott Bessent, Attorney General Pam Bondi and US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, Erika Kirk and several senators.&nbsp;In August, Trump nominated Sergio Gor as India's next ambassador and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. During his testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in September, Gor had emphasised that India is “one of the most important relationships our nation (US) has in the world.” Ahead of his swearing-in, he had visited India in October and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said the US is close to finalizing a trade deal with India that will boost energy exports, investments, and security ties. At Ambassador Sergio Gor’s swearing-in, Trump said tariffs on Indian imports may be reduced soon, noting India has cut Russian oil purchases.

United States President Donald Trump said on Monday (Nov 11) that the US is getting close to reaching a trade deal with India. The US president said that the deal would expand economic and security ties between the two countries, boost American energy exports and promote investments in key US sectors. Trump spoke to reporters during the swearing-in ceremony of Sergio Gor, the new US Ambassador to India, at the Oval Office. "We’re making a deal with India. Much different than we had. Right now they don’t love me but they will love us again. We’re getting a fair deal. They’re very good negotiators, so Sergio, you will have to take a look at that. I think we’re pretty close to doing a deal that is good for everybody," Trump said. Speaking to reporters later, Trump also repeated the claims of India stopping the purchase of Russian oil, "Well, right now, the tariffs are very high on India because of the Russian oil, and they’ve stopped doing the Russian oil. It’s been reduced very substantially. Yeah, we’re going to be bringing the tariffs down. At some point, we’re going to be bringing them down," he said. Praising India as "one of the world's oldest civilisations" and "the largest country in the world", United States President Donald Trump presided over the swearing-in ceremony of Sergio Gor as the next US Ambassador to India, underscoring the vital importance of the US-India partnership Trump said he was entrusting Gor to further strengthen strategic, economic, and security ties with New Delhi, while deepening America's "fantastic relationship" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Present at the swearing-in ceremony were US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary Scott Bessent, Attorney General Pam Bondi and US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, Erika Kirk and several senators. In August, Trump nominated Sergio Gor as India's next ambassador and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. During his testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in September, Gor had emphasised that India is “one of the most important relationships our nation (US) has in the world.” Ahead of his swearing-in, he had visited India in October and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval.

US President Donald Trump said the US is close to finalizing a trade deal with India that will boost energy exports, investments, and security ties. At Ambassador Sergio Gor’s swearing-in, Trump said tariffs on Indian imports may be reduced soon, noting India has cut Russian oil purchases.

'Right now they don’t love me...': Trump says US-India getting close to 'fair deal' on trade, repeats Russian oil claims

India and the United States are preparing to send trade delegations next week after both President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed officials to finalise a long-awaited agreement in the coming weeks.The move follows high-level exchanges earlier this month. On Friday, Trump posted on social media, “I am pleased to announce that India, and the US, are continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers between our two nations. I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, PM Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our great countries.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-in-epstein-crossfire-white-house-screams-hoax-says-will-support-hiring-handwriting-expert-to-review-birthday-note-1757466394943">WH screams 'hoax,' backs handwriting probe on Trump's Epstein birthday note</a>Responding to Trump's Truth Social post, PM Modi posted on X, “India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward… <a href="https://t.co/3K9hlJxWcl">pic.twitter.com/3K9hlJxWcl</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1965597878237139351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump shifts tone</h2>Just last week, Trump had criticised New Delhi, saying India had offered to cut tariffs on US goods to zero “too late” and should have lowered them years ago. The more positive message now comes after months of turbulent negotiations. Talks have often stalled, with India warning that Trump’s 50% tariffs on Indian exports could reduce the country’s GDP growth by half a percentage point this year. Trump doubled the duties on Indian imports after New Delhi refused to halt purchases of Russian oil, which Washington argues help fund Moscow’s war in Ukraine.<h2>The scale of trade ties</h2>Two-way goods trade between the US and India stood at $129 billion in 2024, with the US recording a $45.8 billion deficit, according to data from the US Census Bureau. Alongside trade, Washington will send a delegation on 17–18 September to discuss India’s concerns over the $3 billion purchase of six P8I anti-submarine warfare aircraft.The two sides are also expected to sign an agreement this month for 113 GE-404 aircraft engines to power India’s Tejas Mark I A fighter jets.

India and US to send trade teams next week as Trump and Modi push for a swift deal. Both leaders express confidence in boosting trade ties and strengthening India-US economic partnership.

India and the United States are preparing to send trade delegations next week after both President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed officials to finalise a long-awaited agreement in the coming weeks. The move follows high-level exchanges earlier this month. On Friday, Trump posted on social media, “I am pleased to announce that India, and the US, are continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers between our two nations. I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, PM Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our great countries.” Also read: WH screams 'hoax,' backs handwriting probe on Trump's Epstein birthday note Responding to Trump's Truth Social post, PM Modi posted on X, “India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people.”

India and US to send trade teams next week as Trump and Modi push for a swift deal. Both leaders express confidence in boosting trade ties and strengthening India-US economic partnership.

'Close friends, natural partners': Trump softens tone on India, says trade deal will be done ‘soon’ - Here's how PM Modi responded

As India-US ties took a drastic turn recently after US President Donald Trump's tariffs threat, China on Thursday (August 14) expressed optimism to work with India, and cement political mutual trust, along with handling differences properly.&nbsp;Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, during a press conference, told reporters that India and China are maintaining interactions at various levels, in order to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries.<h2>India-China direct flights</h2>When asked about India resuming direct flights to China as early as next month, Jian said that the Chinese side has been in "close communication with India to promote the early resumption of direct flights between the two countries."&nbsp;"The total population of China and India combined is over 2.8 billion. Resuming direct flights between the Chinese mainland and India helps facilitate cross-border travel, exchanges and cooperation," the spokesperson added.<h2>China backs India against US tariffs</h2>Further highlighting on how India-China relations have taken a positive turn after the US imposed challenges on India, Jian assured that Beijing "stands ready to work with India" to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries.&nbsp;"China and India are both major developing countries and important members of the Global South. A cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant as partners helping each other succeed is the right choice for both sides," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;She stressed that China will work along with India to increase political mutual interest and expand exchanges and cooperation together.&nbsp;"China stands ready to work with India to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries, consistently increase political mutual trust, expand exchanges and cooperation together, properly handle differences while bearing in mind the bigger picture, and strengthen coordination and cooperation on such multilateral platforms as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, with a view to promoting the sound and steady development of China-India relations," added.&nbsp;This comes after Trump imposed massive tariffs on India, citing concerns over New Delhi buying Russian oil, which has potentially brought Russia and China closer to India.&nbsp;China even came in support of India last week, against Trump's tariffs, saying, "India's sovereignty is non-negotiable and its foreign policy choices cannot be manipulated by other countries, no matter how significant their own ties with India are."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, during a press conference, told reporters that India and China are maintaining interactions at various levels, in order to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries.

As India-US ties took a drastic turn recently after US President Donald Trump's tariffs threat, China on Thursday (August 14) expressed optimism to work with India, and cement political mutual trust, along with handling differences properly. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, during a press conference, told reporters that India and China are maintaining interactions at various levels, in order to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries. India-China direct flights When asked about India resuming direct flights to China as early as next month, Jian said that the Chinese side has been in "close communication with India to promote the early resumption of direct flights between the two countries." "The total population of China and India combined is over 2.8 billion. Resuming direct flights between the Chinese mainland and India helps facilitate cross-border travel, exchanges and cooperation," the spokesperson added. China backs India against US tariffs Further highlighting on how India-China relations have taken a positive turn after the US imposed challenges on India, Jian assured that Beijing "stands ready to work with India" to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries. "China and India are both major developing countries and important members of the Global South. A cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant as partners helping each other succeed is the right choice for both sides," the spokesperson said. She stressed that China will work along with India to increase political mutual interest and expand exchanges and cooperation together. "China stands ready to work with India to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries, consistently increase political mutual trust, expand exchanges and cooperation together, properly handle differences while bearing in mind the bigger picture, and strengthen coordination and cooperation on such multilateral platforms as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, with a view to promoting the sound and steady development of China-India relations," added. This comes after Trump imposed massive tariffs on India, citing concerns over New Delhi buying Russian oil, which has potentially brought Russia and China closer to India. China even came in support of India last week, against Trump's tariffs, saying, "India's sovereignty is non-negotiable and its foreign policy choices cannot be manipulated by other countries, no matter how significant their own ties with India are."

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, during a press conference, told reporters that India and China are maintaining interactions at various levels, in order to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries.

'Dragon and elephant helping each other': China backs India amid Trump's massive tariffs

An early visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the White House had sparked months of talks between India and the United States. By July, Indian officials believed a deal had been finalised and was only awaiting President Donald Trump’s approval. But that approval never arrived. Instead, Trump announced steep tariffs, a 25% duty on Indian goods, followed by another 25% aimed at discouraging India from buying Russian oil. The combined 50% tariff has dealt a blow to relations between the two countries.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-rejects-land-swap-proposal-ahead-of-trump-putin-meeting-over-russia-ukraine-war-1754727534070">Zelensky rejects 'land swap' proposal ahead of Trump-Putin meeting</a><h2>Tariffs derail trade hopes</h2>The collapse of the talks reflected Trump’s dissatisfaction with India’s tariff cuts. While New Delhi had agreed to reduce many barriers, it stopped short of the near-zero rates offered by countries like Indonesia. A US official said the Indian offer was “totally insufficient” compared with other deals Trump had secured.Mukesh Aghi, head of the US–India Strategic Partnership Forum, told POLITICO, “We are in a situation now where he is completely upset with India, and the 25 years of effort to build a relationship seems to be going down in 25 hours.”<h2>Shifting focus to Europe</h2>In mid-July, Trump had said a deal with India was close, but his attention quickly moved to talks with the European Union. Negotiations with India stalled, despite expectations in New Delhi that a leader-to-leader conversation could finalise the agreement. Modi, wary of being publicly criticised, avoided such a call. US officials noted that agreements with Japan and South Korea had been reached without direct talks between leaders.<h2>Russian oil at the centre of tensions</h2>The situation escalated when Trump targeted India with an extra 25% tariff over its continued purchase of Russian oil. India bought $52.7 billion worth of Russian oil last year, refining some for sale to Europe. New Delhi insists these imports are essential for its energy security and objects to being singled out when other countries, including the EU and Turkey, also buy Russian energy.Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, said it was, “extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest.”<h2>Talks still on the table</h2>Trump has hinted that other nations could soon face similar measures, saying, “You’re going to see a lot more.” Despite the tensions, discussions continue. A breakthrough before the 27 August deadline could prevent the tariffs from taking full effect. Aghi noted that Trump has avoided criticising Modi directly, suggesting the White House is keeping channels open.

Trade talks between India and the US collapsed after President Trump imposed steep tariffs, citing India’s insufficient tariff cuts, straining relations despite earlier progress and high-level diplomatic efforts.

An early visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the White House had sparked months of talks between India and the United States. By July, Indian officials believed a deal had been finalised and was only awaiting President Donald Trump’s approval. But that approval never arrived. Instead, Trump announced steep tariffs, a 25% duty on Indian goods, followed by another 25% aimed at discouraging India from buying Russian oil. The combined 50% tariff has dealt a blow to relations between the two countries. Also read: Zelensky rejects 'land swap' proposal ahead of Trump-Putin meeting Tariffs derail trade hopes The collapse of the talks reflected Trump’s dissatisfaction with India’s tariff cuts. While New Delhi had agreed to reduce many barriers, it stopped short of the near-zero rates offered by countries like Indonesia. A US official said the Indian offer was “totally insufficient” compared with other deals Trump had secured. Mukesh Aghi, head of the US–India Strategic Partnership Forum, told POLITICO, “We are in a situation now where he is completely upset with India, and the 25 years of effort to build a relationship seems to be going down in 25 hours.” Shifting focus to Europe In mid-July, Trump had said a deal with India was close, but his attention quickly moved to talks with the European Union. Negotiations with India stalled, despite expectations in New Delhi that a leader-to-leader conversation could finalise the agreement. Modi, wary of being publicly criticised, avoided such a call. US officials noted that agreements with Japan and South Korea had been reached without direct talks between leaders. Russian oil at the centre of tensions The situation escalated when Trump targeted India with an extra 25% tariff over its continued purchase of Russian oil. India bought $52.7 billion worth of Russian oil last year, refining some for sale to Europe. New Delhi insists these imports are essential for its energy security and objects to being singled out when other countries, including the EU and Turkey, also buy Russian energy. Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, said it was, “extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest.” Talks still on the table Trump has hinted that other nations could soon face similar measures, saying, “You’re going to see a lot more.” Despite the tensions, discussions continue. A breakthrough before the 27 August deadline could prevent the tariffs from taking full effect. Aghi noted that Trump has avoided criticising Modi directly, suggesting the White House is keeping channels open.

Trade talks between India and the US collapsed after President Trump imposed steep tariffs, citing India’s insufficient tariff cuts, straining relations despite earlier progress and high-level diplomatic efforts.

'25-year relationship went down in 25 hours': Why Trump walked away from an India trade deal at the last minute

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 5) said that he does not know about his country's trade with Russia. His response came when he was asked about America's business with Russia, amid his continuous criticism of India's trade with Russia. Trump on Tuesday, threatened India, saying he would raise the tariff on the country “very substantially over the next 24 hours” due to its purchase of Russian oil. On Monday, Trump had warned that he would raise the tariff on India “substantially”, saying that India was not only buying “massive amounts of Russian oil” but also selling it “on the open market for big profits”. However, in response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called Trump's comments ‘unjustified and unreasonable’ and stated that it was the US that had encouraged India to buy oil from Russia after the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, because such purchases helped stabilise global energy markets. Trump had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India on July 30.&nbsp;On Tuesday's press briefing, Trump was asked by Indian news agency ANI: "India says that the US imports Russian uranium, fertilisers, while criticising their energy imports, what is your comment on this?" The US president dodged the question, stating that he is not aware of it. “I don't know anything about it. I will have to check, but I will get back to you on it.” Trump also said that he never specified the exact rate of tariffs he would impose on countries doing business with Russia. "I never said a percentage, but we'll be doing quite a bit of that. We'll see what happens over the next fairly short period of time. But we will see what happens...", Trump added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Reporter: India says US imports Russian Uranium, chemicals and fertilisers while criticising India’s energy imports from Russia Donald Trump: I don&#39;t know anything about that. I have to check. Will get back to you (Source: US Network Pool via Reuters)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>… <a href="https://t.co/Cznym3hgA9">pic.twitter.com/Cznym3hgA9</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1952928570612806102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India's response to Trump's continuous threats</h2>New Delhi, in its response to the White House, argued that it was the US that had encouraged India to buy oil from Russia after the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, as such purchases helped stabilise global energy markets. “Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.” “We make decisions based on the price at which oil is available in the international market, and depending on the global situation at that time,” Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson of the MEA, told journalists in New Delhi on Friday. The MEA statement also highlighted that the US and Europe import several items from Russia while they continue to demand the suspension of India-Russia trade. “Where the United States is concerned, it continues to import from Russia uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear industry, palladium for its EV industry, fertilisers as well as chemicals…Europe-Russia trade includes not just energy, but also fertilisers, mining products, chemicals, iron and steel and machinery and transport equipment.,” the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Statement by Official Spokesperson⬇️ 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/O2hJTOZBby">https://t.co/O2hJTOZBby</a> <a href="https://t.co/RTQ2beJC0W">pic.twitter.com/RTQ2beJC0W</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1952412858567844061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) stated that he had no knowledge that the United States imports Russian chemicals and fertilisers. His statement came when he was asked about his country's business with Russia as he continues his attack on India over Russian trade 

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 5) said that he does not know about his country's trade with Russia. His response came when he was asked about America's business with Russia, amid his continuous criticism of India's trade with Russia. Trump on Tuesday, threatened India, saying he would raise the tariff on the country “very substantially over the next 24 hours” due to its purchase of Russian oil. On Monday, Trump had warned that he would raise the tariff on India “substantially”, saying that India was not only buying “massive amounts of Russian oil” but also selling it “on the open market for big profits”. However, in response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called Trump's comments ‘unjustified and unreasonable’ and stated that it was the US that had encouraged India to buy oil from Russia after the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, because such purchases helped stabilise global energy markets. Trump had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India on July 30. On Tuesday's press briefing, Trump was asked by Indian news agency ANI: "India says that the US imports Russian uranium, fertilisers, while criticising their energy imports, what is your comment on this?" The US president dodged the question, stating that he is not aware of it. “I don't know anything about it. I will have to check, but I will get back to you on it.” Trump also said that he never specified the exact rate of tariffs he would impose on countries doing business with Russia. "I never said a percentage, but we'll be doing quite a bit of that. We'll see what happens over the next fairly short period of time. But we will see what happens...", Trump added.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) stated that he had no knowledge that the United States imports Russian chemicals and fertilisers. His statement came when he was asked about his country's business with Russia as he continues his attack on India over Russian trade&nbsp;

I don't...: Trump's SHOCKING response to India's claim about US-Russia uranium and fertilizer trade

Days after US President Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariffs on India, India's Ministry of External Affairs on Friday (August 1) reaffirmed the strength and resilience of India-US relations. The MEA stressed that the India-US relationship has "weathered many transitions" and remains anchored in shared interests and mutual respect.&nbsp;Trump on Wednesday announced 25 per cent tariffs, along with a penalty on India, citing high trade barriers and India's arms and oil imports from Russia amid its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday said that India and the US have strong defence ties, which have been strengthening over the last several years.&nbsp;“There is potential for our defence partnership to grow further. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that both countries have committed to," Jaiswal asserted.&nbsp;Despite the disappointing tariff announcement, India's ministry expressed confidence that bilateral ties between the two nations would continue to progress.&nbsp;"We are confident our relationship with the United States will continue to move forward,” Jaiswal said.<h2>Ties shouldn't be seen from prison of third nation</h2>MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal further stressed that the ties between India and the US should not be seen through the prism of a third nation.&nbsp;“Ties with any country, and all the ties that we have with various countries, stand on their own merit and shouldn’t be seen through the prism of a third country,” he said.&nbsp;Trump on Wednesday announced that impose 25 per cent tariffs on India, along with a penalty, citing several reasons. India has been disappointed by the US tariffs.&nbsp;India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said that the government is now engaging with exporters to assess the impact of Mr Trump's tariffs. He added that his ministry is collecting feedback from exporters and industry groups, and will take "all necessary steps to secure and advance our national interest."&nbsp;

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday said that India and the US have strong defence ties, which have been strengthening over the last several years. This comes days after Trump announced 25 per cent tariffs, along with a penalty on India. 

Days after US President Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariffs on India, India's Ministry of External Affairs on Friday (August 1) reaffirmed the strength and resilience of India-US relations. The MEA stressed that the India-US relationship has "weathered many transitions" and remains anchored in shared interests and mutual respect. Trump on Wednesday announced 25 per cent tariffs, along with a penalty on India, citing high trade barriers and India's arms and oil imports from Russia amid its war with Ukraine. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday said that India and the US have strong defence ties, which have been strengthening over the last several years. “There is potential for our defence partnership to grow further. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that both countries have committed to," Jaiswal asserted. Despite the disappointing tariff announcement, India's ministry expressed confidence that bilateral ties between the two nations would continue to progress. "We are confident our relationship with the United States will continue to move forward,” Jaiswal said. Ties shouldn't be seen from prison of third nation MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal further stressed that the ties between India and the US should not be seen through the prism of a third nation. “Ties with any country, and all the ties that we have with various countries, stand on their own merit and shouldn’t be seen through the prism of a third country,” he said. Trump on Wednesday announced that impose 25 per cent tariffs on India, along with a penalty, citing several reasons. India has been disappointed by the US tariffs. India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said that the government is now engaging with exporters to assess the impact of Mr Trump's tariffs. He added that his ministry is collecting feedback from exporters and industry groups, and will take "all necessary steps to secure and advance our national interest."

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday said that India and the US have strong defence ties, which have been strengthening over the last several years. This comes days after Trump announced 25 per cent tariffs, along with a penalty on India.&nbsp;

Can Trump's tariffs upend India-US ties? MEA responds amid ongoing trade row—Here's what it said

India has stood firm in its trade negotiations with the US, prioritising its national interests and protecting domestic industries. This is probably what's frustrating President Donald Trump, who announced 25 per cent tariffs and additional penalties on India, citing trade gap, high tariffs as well as non-tariff barriers, and trade in arms and energy with Russia. An Indian team has been negotiating with the US counterparts for a trade deal - reportedy to be worth nearly $118 billion - to avert the tariffs, but the Trump deadline of August 1 is unlikely to be met. There are some crucial sectors of Indian economy on which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will not compromise. This is both to protect domestic industries, and to prevent political fallout and possible criticism of selling out to the US.&nbsp;<h2>India won't rush into a trade deal with US</h2>Addressing parliament on Thursday (July 31), Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said the government "will protect the interests of our farmers, small industries and entrepreneurs."He said India will not rush into an agreement just to meet Trump's deadlines and will only accept a deal that aligns with its national interests.<h2>Protecting the Indian farmer: Agricultural sector safeguards are important for both Indian economy and politics</h2>India is keen to safeguard its farming sector, where the US has been seeking greater market access for products like maize, soybean and corn. Another issue of contention is genetically modified (GM) crops, which India has been resisting. More about it later. Allowing such imports in large amounts will hit domestic farmers as well as food security. In trade deals with other countries also, India has consistently avoided tariff concessions on major agricultural products. The thrust has always been on protecting millions of Indian small farmers in order to ensure food security.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-tariffs-could-disrupt-118bn-in-india-us-trade-india-braces-for-25-tariff-hit-1753958648484/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-tariffs-could-disrupt-118bn-in-india-us-trade-india-braces-for-25-tariff-hit-1753958648484/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>India has a red line on dairy sector</h2>Diary products are another 'non-negotiable red line' for India. India has refused to allow imports of US dairy products, including so-called 'non-vegetarian milk' (possibly from animals fed with certain kinds of feeds or hormones). India wants to protect its dairy farmers and make the domestic market stable. Not just the US, but India has not given duty concessions for dairy products in any of its free trade agreements.<h2>Genetically Modified (GM) Crops: A controversial territory</h2>GM crops have been a controversial topic in India for decades. India has explicitly rejected American demands to allow imports of GM crops, such as soybean and corn. It could hit Indian agriculture, and affect people's health.<h2>Non-Tariff Barriers and quality control orders</h2>Quality Control Orders are part of the ‘self-reliant India’ initiative, aimed at curbing low-quality imports and promoting domestic manufacturing. The US has raised concerns about QCOs. The other sticking point is NTFs, which block market access to several US products. India, for which both NTBs and QCOs as crucial for protecting its domestic industries, is unlikely to relax them.<h2>Energy Imports are about India's strategic autonomy</h2>In meeting its energy demands, India has been importing from countries the West sees as enemies, particularly Russia and Iran. But India is very clear that national interest will guide its energy purchases. These imports, such as petroleum from Russia, are cheaper for India. India has tied its energy trade with its strategic autonomy. This is not an area India can compromise.&nbsp;These positions align with India’s broader trade policy, which prioritises protecting domestic industries, ensuring food security, and maintaining a favourable trade balance.India, meanwhile, remains open to offering concessions in other areas. This includes cuts in tariffs on automobiles and American whiskey, or duty concessions for textiles, leather, footwear, and auto parts.

The Trump deadline of August 1 for a trade deal with India is unlikely to be met. There are some crucial sectors of Indian economy on which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will not compromise. Here is why

India has stood firm in its trade negotiations with the US, prioritising its national interests and protecting domestic industries. This is probably what's frustrating President Donald Trump, who announced 25 per cent tariffs and additional penalties on India, citing trade gap, high tariffs as well as non-tariff barriers, and trade in arms and energy with Russia. An Indian team has been negotiating with the US counterparts for a trade deal - reportedy to be worth nearly $118 billion - to avert the tariffs, but the Trump deadline of August 1 is unlikely to be met. There are some crucial sectors of Indian economy on which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will not compromise. This is both to protect domestic industries, and to prevent political fallout and possible criticism of selling out to the US. India won't rush into a trade deal with US Addressing parliament on Thursday (July 31), Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said the government "will protect the interests of our farmers, small industries and entrepreneurs." He said India will not rush into an agreement just to meet Trump's deadlines and will only accept a deal that aligns with its national interests. Protecting the Indian farmer: Agricultural sector safeguards are important for both Indian economy and politics India is keen to safeguard its farming sector, where the US has been seeking greater market access for products like maize, soybean and corn. Another issue of contention is genetically modified (GM) crops, which India has been resisting. More about it later. Allowing such imports in large amounts will hit domestic farmers as well as food security. In trade deals with other countries also, India has consistently avoided tariff concessions on major agricultural products. The thrust has always been on protecting millions of Indian small farmers in order to ensure food security. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-s-tariffs-could-disrupt-118bn-in-india-us-trade-india-braces-for-25-tariff-hit-1753958648484/embed India has a red line on dairy sector Diary products are another 'non-negotiable red line' for India. India has refused to allow imports of US dairy products, including so-called 'non-vegetarian milk' (possibly from animals fed with certain kinds of feeds or hormones). India wants to protect its dairy farmers and make the domestic market stable. Not just the US, but India has not given duty concessions for dairy products in any of its free trade agreements. Genetically Modified (GM) Crops: A controversial territory GM crops have been a controversial topic in India for decades. India has explicitly rejected American demands to allow imports of GM crops, such as soybean and corn. It could hit Indian agriculture, and affect people's health. Non-Tariff Barriers and quality control orders Quality Control Orders are part of the ‘self-reliant India’ initiative, aimed at curbing low-quality imports and promoting domestic manufacturing. The US has raised concerns about QCOs. The other sticking point is NTFs, which block market access to several US products. India, for which both NTBs and QCOs as crucial for protecting its domestic industries, is unlikely to relax them. Energy Imports are about India's strategic autonomy In meeting its energy demands, India has been importing from countries the West sees as enemies, particularly Russia and Iran. But India is very clear that national interest will guide its energy purchases. These imports, such as petroleum from Russia, are cheaper for India. India has tied its energy trade with its strategic autonomy. This is not an area India can compromise. These positions align with India’s broader trade policy, which prioritises protecting domestic industries, ensuring food security, and maintaining a favourable trade balance. India, meanwhile, remains open to offering concessions in other areas. This includes cuts in tariffs on automobiles and American whiskey, or duty concessions for textiles, leather, footwear, and auto parts.

The Trump deadline of August 1 for a trade deal with India is unlikely to be met. There are some crucial sectors of Indian economy on which Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will not compromise. Here is why

Why Modi will not compromise on trade deal with Trump. These sectors are crucial for Indian economy (and politics)

Hours after announcing a 25 per cent tariff on India, United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 30) said that he doesn't care about India's business with Russia and explained the real reason behind his tariff. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that US has done “very little” business with India, with very high tariffs. He also slammed the Indian and Russian economies as “dead”. The US president also came down heavily on Russia as well as former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Trump, who gave an ultimatum to Russia to end the Ukraine war, clarified that he does not want any business deal with Russia. Trump's statement comes after he said that America will impose 25 per cent tariffs on goods imported from India "plus an unspecified penalty" for buying Russian oil and weapons. &nbsp;“I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care. We have done very little business with India, their Tariffs are too high, among the highest in the World. Likewise, Russia and the USA do almost no business together. Let’s keep it that way, and tell Medvedev, the failed former President of Russia, who thinks he’s still President, to watch his words. He’s entering very dangerous territory!”&nbsp;

Trump earlier reiterated that the US has “massive trade deficit with India.” While acknowledging India as a “friend,” Trump criticised the country for maintaining excessively high tariffs and what he described as “obnoxious” non-monetary trade barriers, which he claimed have hindered US–India trade for years. He also condemned India’s continued purchase of military equipment and energy from Russia, calling it inappropriate amid ongoing global efforts to halt Russia’s war in Ukraine. In response, India’s government stated it is reviewing the decision and reaffirmed its commitment to negotiating a fair, balanced trade agreement that protects domestic interests.

United States President Donald Trump said that he doesn't care about India's business with Russia and explained the real reason behind his tariff. His statement comes after he said that he would impose "unspecified penalty" on India for buying Russian oil and weapons.

Hours after announcing a 25 per cent tariff on India, United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 30) said that he doesn't care about India's business with Russia and explained the real reason behind his tariff. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that US has done “very little” business with India, with very high tariffs. He also slammed the Indian and Russian economies as “dead”. The US president also came down heavily on Russia as well as former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Trump, who gave an ultimatum to Russia to end the Ukraine war, clarified that he does not want any business deal with Russia. Trump's statement comes after he said that America will impose 25 per cent tariffs on goods imported from India "plus an unspecified penalty" for buying Russian oil and weapons. “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care. We have done very little business with India, their Tariffs are too high, among the highest in the World. Likewise, Russia and the USA do almost no business together. Let’s keep it that way, and tell Medvedev, the failed former President of Russia, who thinks he’s still President, to watch his words. He’s entering very dangerous territory!”

United States President Donald Trump said that he doesn't care about India's business with Russia and explained the real reason behind his tariff. His statement comes after he said that he would impose "unspecified penalty" on India for buying Russian oil and weapons.

'Don’t care what...': Trump criticises India, Russia as 'dead economies', issues BIG statement after 25% tariff announcement

Hours after announcing a 25% tariff and penalty on India, US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (July 30) that negotiations with New Delhi are still ongoing. During a press conference at the White House, Trump was asked about the new penalty imposed on India for “supporting” Russia and whether other countries might face similar action. In his response, Trump appeared to link the move to India’s membership in BRICS, a group of eleven emerging economies that includes Russia and China.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-have-oil-partnership-with-pakistan-trump-says-washington-to-help-develop-islamabad-s-massive-oil-reserves-1753909702771">US to have oil partnership with Pakistan? Trump says Washington to help develop Islamabad's ‘massive oil reserves’</a>“Well, we are negotiating right now and it’s also BRICS. BRICS, which is basically a group of countries that are anti the United States and India is a member of that if you can believe it…It is an attack on the dollar and we are not going to let anybody attack the dollar. So it’s partially BRICS and it’s partially trade,” he said. Apart from India, the BRICS bloc includes Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran.<h2>Trump says India has one of the world’s highest tariffs</h2>Despite referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “friend”, Trump criticised India’s trade practices, calling the country one of the highest-tariff nations globally. “We had a tremendous deficit. As you know Prime Minister Modi is a friend of mine, but they don’t do very much business in terms of business with us. They sell a lot to us, but we don’t buy from them. You know why? Because the tariff is so high,” Trump said.He added that India is now willing to cut tariffs “very substantially”, but negotiations are still in progress. “We are talking to India now. We will see what happens. It doesn’t matter too much whether we have a deal or we charge them a certain tariff. But you will know at the end of this week,” he added.<h2>Is a trade deal still possible?</h2>When asked directly whether he is open to negotiating the tariff decision with India, Trump confirmed that talks are ongoing. “We are talking to them now. We will see what happens. India was the highest or just about the highest-tariff nation in the world…We will see. We are negotiating with India right now,” he said.<h2>India responds to Trump’s 25% tariff decision</h2>In response to the US move, the Indian government said it is reviewing the announcement and considering its implications. “India and the US have been engaged in negotiations on concluding a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement over the last few months. We remain committed to that objective,” the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;statement.

President Trump defended a 25% tariff on India, linking it to trade issues and India’s BRICS membership, which he called anti-US. He confirmed negotiations with New Delhi are still ongoing.

Hours after announcing a 25% tariff and penalty on India, US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday (July 30) that negotiations with New Delhi are still ongoing. During a press conference at the White House, Trump was asked about the new penalty imposed on India for “supporting” Russia and whether other countries might face similar action. In his response, Trump appeared to link the move to India’s membership in BRICS, a group of eleven emerging economies that includes Russia and China. Also read: US to have oil partnership with Pakistan? Trump says Washington to help develop Islamabad's ‘massive oil reserves’ “Well, we are negotiating right now and it’s also BRICS. BRICS, which is basically a group of countries that are anti the United States and India is a member of that if you can believe it…It is an attack on the dollar and we are not going to let anybody attack the dollar. So it’s partially BRICS and it’s partially trade,” he said. Apart from India, the BRICS bloc includes Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. Trump says India has one of the world’s highest tariffs Despite referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “friend”, Trump criticised India’s trade practices, calling the country one of the highest-tariff nations globally. “We had a tremendous deficit. As you know Prime Minister Modi is a friend of mine, but they don’t do very much business in terms of business with us. They sell a lot to us, but we don’t buy from them. You know why? Because the tariff is so high,” Trump said. He added that India is now willing to cut tariffs “very substantially”, but negotiations are still in progress. “We are talking to India now. We will see what happens. It doesn’t matter too much whether we have a deal or we charge them a certain tariff. But you will know at the end of this week,” he added. Is a trade deal still possible? When asked directly whether he is open to negotiating the tariff decision with India, Trump confirmed that talks are ongoing. “We are talking to them now. We will see what happens. India was the highest or just about the highest-tariff nation in the world…We will see. We are negotiating with India right now,” he said. India responds to Trump’s 25% tariff decision In response to the US move, the Indian government said it is reviewing the announcement and considering its implications. “India and the US have been engaged in negotiations on concluding a fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement over the last few months. We remain committed to that objective,” the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a statement.

President Trump defended a 25% tariff on India, linking it to trade issues and India’s BRICS membership, which he called anti-US. He confirmed negotiations with New Delhi are still ongoing.

‘Partially BRICS, partially trade’: Trump reveals TWO reasons why he slapped 25% tariff on India, then calls Modi a ‘friend’

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 30) announced to impose a 25 per cent tariff on India, effective from August 1, saying that the US has a massive trade deficit with India. Trump stressed that, along with a 25 per cent tariff, India will also be paying penalties.&nbsp;Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday, and while noting that India is a "friend", said that relatively, the US has done "little business with them because their tariffs are far too high."&nbsp;The US president added that India's tariffs are among the “highest in the world, and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers of any country.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">US President Donald Trump announces 25% tariffs on India starting August 1st. Source: Donald Trump&#39;s Truth Social Account <a href="https://t.co/bgj1wsGcMR">pic.twitter.com/bgj1wsGcMR</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1950531766038761550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump continued, as he raised concerns over India buying the majority of its military equipment from Russia, at a time when everyone wants Russia to stop the war in Ukraine. "Also, they have always bought a vast majority of their military equipment from Russia, and are Russia’s largest buyer of ENERGY, along with China, at a time when everyone wants Russia to STOP THE KILLING IN UKRAINE," he stressed. Trump announced to put penalties on India, along with the 25 per cent tariffs, starting on August 1. "ALL THINGS NOT GOOD! INDIA WILL THEREFORE BE PAYING A TARIFF OF 25%, PLUS A PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE, STARTING ON AUGUST FIRST. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. MAGA!," he posted. In just a few minutes, Trump shared another post, stating, "WE HAVE A MASSIVE TRADE DEFICIT WITH INDIA!!!." Earlier on Tuesday, while speaking to reporters, Trump threatened to slap tariffs of up to 25% on Indian imports if Washington and New Delhi fail to finalise a trade deal soon. Although Trump referred to India as a friendly partner, he has repeatedly criticised the country’s trade practices and high import duties, calling the relationship “very tough”.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 30) announced to impose 25 per cent tariff on India, effective from August 1, saying that the US has a massive trade deficit with India. 

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (July 30) announced to impose a 25 per cent tariff on India, effective from August 1, saying that the US has a massive trade deficit with India. Trump stressed that, along with a 25 per cent tariff, India will also be paying penalties. Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday, and while noting that India is a "friend", said that relatively, the US has done "little business with them because their tariffs are far too high." The US president added that India's tariffs are among the “highest in the world, and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers of any country.”

The US president said that India's tariffs are among the highest in the world, adding that they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers of any country.

'Massive trade deficit with India': Trump imposes 25% tariff on India, plus penalties for arms trade with Russia

US President Donald Trump has suggested that a trade agreement with India could be on the horizon, saying “another deal is coming… maybe,” according to a Reuters report. Speaking about trade negotiations, Trump said, “We have some pretty good deals to announce.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-won-t-rule-out-firing-lousy-jerome-powell-can-us-president-even-fire-federal-reserve-chair-1752684726290">Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal&nbsp;Reserve&nbsp;chair?</a><h2>India pushes back on any rushed deal</h2>The comment comes as a delegation from India’s commerce ministry is in Washington, DC for another round of trade talks. However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it clear that New Delhi will not be rushed. “India does not enter into any trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the US only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded, and in the national interest,” Goyal told PTI earlier this month.<h2>What does the US want from India?</h2>The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. “Indonesia was great. He [President Prabowo Subianto] is a great president and we made a terrific deal,” Trump said. “I think something similar will happen, I would say, with India,” he added.<h2>What is Trump's deal with Indonesia?</h2>Under the new agreement, Indonesian goods would face a 19% tariff when exported to the US, while US exports to Jakarta would face no tariffs, an asymmetric arrangement favouring American companies. Indonesia initially received a tariff letter stating that the country’s goods would face a 32% tariff starting on August 1 if an agreement was not reached.<h2>India seeks tariff relief on metals and autos</h2>While India is keen to avoid US-imposed tariffs, officials have said they won’t compromise core interests. New Delhi is particularly seeking relief from the 26% additional tariff on various goods, as well as steep duties on steel, aluminium (50%), and automobiles (25%). India has also remained firm on its stance regarding dairy imports, refusing to offer duty concessions in that sector under any free trade agreement to date.It is worth noting that India was not among the 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar, that received Trump’s latest wave of letters threatening tariff action.

The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. 

US President Donald Trump has suggested that a trade agreement with India could be on the horizon, saying “another deal is coming… maybe,” according to a Reuters report. Speaking about trade negotiations, Trump said, “We have some pretty good deals to announce.” Also read: Trump ‘won’t rule out’ firing ‘lousy’ Jerome Powell - Can US president even fire Federal Reserve chair? India pushes back on any rushed deal The comment comes as a delegation from India’s commerce ministry is in Washington, DC for another round of trade talks. However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has made it clear that New Delhi will not be rushed. “India does not enter into any trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the US only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded, and in the national interest,” Goyal told PTI earlier this month. What does the US want from India? The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access. “Indonesia was great. He [President Prabowo Subianto] is a great president and we made a terrific deal,” Trump said. “I think something similar will happen, I would say, with India,” he added. What is Trump's deal with Indonesia? Under the new agreement, Indonesian goods would face a 19% tariff when exported to the US, while US exports to Jakarta would face no tariffs, an asymmetric arrangement favouring American companies. Indonesia initially received a tariff letter stating that the country’s goods would face a 32% tariff starting on August 1 if an agreement was not reached. India seeks tariff relief on metals and autos While India is keen to avoid US-imposed tariffs, officials have said they won’t compromise core interests. New Delhi is particularly seeking relief from the 26% additional tariff on various goods, as well as steep duties on steel, aluminium (50%), and automobiles (25%). India has also remained firm on its stance regarding dairy imports, refusing to offer duty concessions in that sector under any free trade agreement to date. It is worth noting that India was not among the 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh and Myanmar, that received Trump’s latest wave of letters threatening tariff action.

The US is pushing for greater access to the Indian market, particularly for American agricultural and dairy products. Trump drew a comparison to Indonesia, where he recently signed a deal allowing American firms full trade access.&nbsp;

US-India trade deal in sight? Trump says deal could happen ‘soon’, hints it may resemble Indonesia agreement - All you need to know

India, US talk trade amid Trump tariff threat: Amid crunch talks for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the US as the Trump tariff threat looms, India has proposed retaliatory tariffs under WTO rules in response to the US "safeguard" tariffs on steel and aluminium. The first phase of a BTA, which could be a ‘mini-deal’ is expected to be inked by September-October. But that will cross the August 1 deadline given by US President Donald Trump for countries to reach trade deals with the US, or face tariffs. What is the status of India-US trade deal? How will India be affected if no trade deal is reached? Here is what you should know:<h2>What is the status of India-US trade deal?</h2>Even as he sent out letters to several trading partner countries, Trump continued to say that a deal is likely with India.The two sides are racing to finalise the BTA as soon as possible, having missed the deadline of July 9, the date till which Trump had frozen the tariffs.An Indian commerce ministry team is preparing for another round of negotiations in Washington on the trade deal, according to indian media reports.<h2>India's offers and differences with US on tariffs and trade</h2>India has offered zero tariffs on 60 per cent of US imports worth $23 billion. New Delhi has also promised preferential access for 90 per cent of US goods, as well as cuts on items like bourbon whiskey and Harley-Davidson bikes.The US insists on lower tariffs on agriculture and dairy products. It wants access to the Indian market for the controversial Genetically Modified or GM crops. On these issues, India has remained firm in protecting the interests of the Indian farmers. India has also reportedly resisted a US demand to reduce its 'Made in India' origin rule from 60 per cent to 35 per cent.<h2>What tariffs could hit India if no trade deal is reached by August 1?</h2>Trump has expressed optimism about a trade deal with India. It is quite possible that he would extend the deadline for the same with India ‘on good faith’.&nbsp;But if a deal is not reached, India could face a 10 per cent 'universal tariff' on all imports from India, as imposed by the US president in April. In addition, India could face an extra 17 per cent reciprocal tariff. The overall tariff rate, therefore, could be 27 per cent.<h2>Which sectors of India are facing US tariffs?</h2>Perhaps the biggest import tariffs could be on steel and aluminium, which could be raised up to 50 per cent. Indian auto imports could face 25 per cent tariff, though Indian parts coming via Canada and Mexico might get exemptions.Also exempted, as of now, are pharmaceutical, semiconductor and copper imports from India. Certain minerals and energy products critical to the US economy might also be exempt. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-issues-fresh-tariff-letters-for-6-countries-1752084934139/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-issues-fresh-tariff-letters-for-6-countries-1752084934139/embed</a><h2>How will India-specific tariffs affect Indian exporters?</h2>The key sectors from India that could be hit by tariffs are gems, jewellery, marine products, electronics and auto parts.Textile imports from India could face up to 27 per cent tariff. Still, Indian textile and apparel might get a relative advantage, given that China, the main exporter to the US, is facing 145 per cent tariffs.<h2>US has a trade deficit with India and Trump wants to change it</h2>Indian exports to the US stood at around $129 billion in 2024, with pharmaceuticals alone accounting for $13 billion.The US has a trade deficit of $45 billion with India, which is a major grievance of Trump. He is taking the tariff route to reduce this gap.The Trump administration estimates US tariff revenues of around $34.8 billion per year from India, assuming there is no trade drop.<h2>Prognosis: What will happen to Indian exports to the US if no deal is reached?</h2>There will be high costs on some key Indian goods as mentioned above. Tariffs could reduce India's competitiveness and lead to a decline in Indian exports to the US, as they'd be less attractive for US importers. Despite deep concessions offered by India, differences remain on agricultural trade.Both nations are aiming to reach 'Mission 500', a goal of $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. The coming weeks would be critical in deciding the future of India-US trade.&nbsp;

What is the status of India-US trade deal? How will India be affected if no trade deal is reached and Trump tariffs are imposed? Here is what you should know

India, US talk trade amid Trump tariff threat: Amid crunch talks for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the US as the Trump tariff threat looms, India has proposed retaliatory tariffs under WTO rules in response to the US "safeguard" tariffs on steel and aluminium. The first phase of a BTA, which could be a ‘mini-deal’ is expected to be inked by September-October. But that will cross the August 1 deadline given by US President Donald Trump for countries to reach trade deals with the US, or face tariffs. What is the status of India-US trade deal? How will India be affected if no trade deal is reached? Here is what you should know: What is the status of India-US trade deal? Even as he sent out letters to several trading partner countries, Trump continued to say that a deal is likely with India. The two sides are racing to finalise the BTA as soon as possible, having missed the deadline of July 9, the date till which Trump had frozen the tariffs. An Indian commerce ministry team is preparing for another round of negotiations in Washington on the trade deal, according to indian media reports. India's offers and differences with US on tariffs and trade India has offered zero tariffs on 60 per cent of US imports worth $23 billion. New Delhi has also promised preferential access for 90 per cent of US goods, as well as cuts on items like bourbon whiskey and Harley-Davidson bikes. The US insists on lower tariffs on agriculture and dairy products. It wants access to the Indian market for the controversial Genetically Modified or GM crops. On these issues, India has remained firm in protecting the interests of the Indian farmers. India has also reportedly resisted a US demand to reduce its 'Made in India' origin rule from 60 per cent to 35 per cent. What tariffs could hit India if no trade deal is reached by August 1? Trump has expressed optimism about a trade deal with India. It is quite possible that he would extend the deadline for the same with India ‘on good faith’. But if a deal is not reached, India could face a 10 per cent 'universal tariff' on all imports from India, as imposed by the US president in April. In addition, India could face an extra 17 per cent reciprocal tariff. The overall tariff rate, therefore, could be 27 per cent. Which sectors of India are facing US tariffs? Perhaps the biggest import tariffs could be on steel and aluminium, which could be raised up to 50 per cent. Indian auto imports could face 25 per cent tariff, though Indian parts coming via Canada and Mexico might get exemptions. Also exempted, as of now, are pharmaceutical, semiconductor and copper imports from India. Certain minerals and energy products critical to the US economy might also be exempt. https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-issues-fresh-tariff-letters-for-6-countries-1752084934139/embed How will India-specific tariffs affect Indian exporters? The key sectors from India that could be hit by tariffs are gems, jewellery, marine products, electronics and auto parts. Textile imports from India could face up to 27 per cent tariff. Still, Indian textile and apparel might get a relative advantage, given that China, the main exporter to the US, is facing 145 per cent tariffs. US has a trade deficit with India and Trump wants to change it Indian exports to the US stood at around $129 billion in 2024, with pharmaceuticals alone accounting for $13 billion. The US has a trade deficit of $45 billion with India, which is a major grievance of Trump. He is taking the tariff route to reduce this gap. The Trump administration estimates US tariff revenues of around $34.8 billion per year from India, assuming there is no trade drop. Prognosis: What will happen to Indian exports to the US if no deal is reached? There will be high costs on some key Indian goods as mentioned above. Tariffs could reduce India's competitiveness and lead to a decline in Indian exports to the US, as they'd be less attractive for US importers. Despite deep concessions offered by India, differences remain on agricultural trade. Both nations are aiming to reach 'Mission 500', a goal of $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. The coming weeks would be critical in deciding the future of India-US trade.

What is the status of India-US trade deal? How will India be affected if no trade deal is reached and Trump tariffs are imposed? Here is what you should know &nbsp;

Deal or no deal? India races with trade talks amid Trump tariff threat, proposes retaliatory rates on US steel, aluminium

The United States has extended its deadline for higher tariffs to take effect, offering a narrow window for its trading partners to finalise new trade agreements and avoid steep duties. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the tariff increase would now begin on 1 August, giving countries until 9 July to complete negotiations.&nbsp;As per Reuters, Trump said several trade deals were “close” to being wrapped up in the coming days. The move is part of Washington’s strategy to pressure partners into making concessions while threatening significant economic consequences if talks stall.<h2>Tariffs as bargaining tool</h2>Trump’s tariff policy includes a 10 per cent base rate on most countries, with surcharges reaching as high as 50 per cent. While announced in April, those higher rates were postponed to allow time for negotiations. The new deadline, however, signals the White House’s impatience with what officials have described as slow progress.&nbsp;Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told reporters the 1 August start date for higher rates remains in place, but added that Trump is “setting the rates and the deals right now.” This flexible approach is designed to keep trading partners off balance and eager to sign before penalties kick in, as per Reuters.&nbsp;<h2>Letters warn over 100 countries</h2>US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on CNN that the administration would soon send letters to over 100 countries, warning them they could face tariff rates originally set in April but suspended until now.&nbsp;According to Reuters, Bessent predicted a flurry of trade announcements soon, noting that talks with the European Union had made solid progress. The threat of returning to April’s tariff levels is meant to force countries to finalise deals quickly to avoid renewed trade tensions.<h2>Flexibility for willing partners</h2>White House National Economic Council head Kevin Hassett signalled that there could be “wiggle room” for countries negotiating in good faith. Speaking to CBS News, Hassett suggested Trump might offer extra time to partners prepared to make meaningful concessions.&nbsp;Stephen Miran, chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, echoed this optimism in an interview with ABC News. He highlighted positive signals from discussions with Europe and India, saying countries demonstrating goodwill could secure more favourable tariff terms or even a delay in the deadline.<h2>Focus on key trade partners</h2>As per Reuters, the Trump administration is prioritising negotiations with 18 major trading partners accounting for 95 per cent of the US trade deficit. But smaller economies are also being pressed to strike deals quickly.&nbsp;Thailand, for example, is scrambling to avoid a 36 per cent tariff. The country’s finance minister told Bloomberg News it will offer greater market access for US agricultural and industrial goods, while promising increased purchases of US energy and Boeing jets.<h2>India deal seen nearing conclusion</h2>India is also racing to finalise an agreement. According to CNBC-TV18, India and the United States could announce a mini trade deal within the next two days. The average tariff on Indian goods shipped to the US is expected to settle at around 10 per cent if the deal is concluded, potentially sparing both economies deeper disruption.&nbsp;&nbsp;White House officials are pointing to framework deals with Britain and Vietnam as models for these negotiations. Hassett argued these arrangements show Trump’s tariff threats are pushing manufacturing and investment back to the United States.<h2>High-stakes strategy</h2>Miran praised the deal with Vietnam as highly favourable to the United States. He described it as “extremely one-sided,” allowing Washington to impose significant tariffs on Vietnamese exports while enjoying near-zero tariffs on American goods in return. Trump’s approach, combining aggressive deadlines with the promise of tailored deals, is classic high-stakes negotiation. By delaying the tariff hike while warning of its swift return, the White House message is clear: sign now or pay later.&nbsp;Whether this strategy will deliver durable agreements or provoke fresh trade tensions remains to be seen. For now, the world’s major economies have just weeks to avoid the next phase of Washington’s tariff escalation.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)

President Trump extends the tariff deadline, intensifying pressure on over 100 nations, including India and the EU to finalise trade deals or face renewed economic penalties.

The United States has extended its deadline for higher tariffs to take effect, offering a narrow window for its trading partners to finalise new trade agreements and avoid steep duties. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the tariff increase would now begin on 1 August, giving countries until 9 July to complete negotiations. As per Reuters, Trump said several trade deals were “close” to being wrapped up in the coming days. The move is part of Washington’s strategy to pressure partners into making concessions while threatening significant economic consequences if talks stall. Tariffs as bargaining tool Trump’s tariff policy includes a 10 per cent base rate on most countries, with surcharges reaching as high as 50 per cent. While announced in April, those higher rates were postponed to allow time for negotiations. The new deadline, however, signals the White House’s impatience with what officials have described as slow progress. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told reporters the 1 August start date for higher rates remains in place, but added that Trump is “setting the rates and the deals right now.” This flexible approach is designed to keep trading partners off balance and eager to sign before penalties kick in, as per Reuters. Letters warn over 100 countries US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on CNN that the administration would soon send letters to over 100 countries, warning them they could face tariff rates originally set in April but suspended until now. According to Reuters, Bessent predicted a flurry of trade announcements soon, noting that talks with the European Union had made solid progress. The threat of returning to April’s tariff levels is meant to force countries to finalise deals quickly to avoid renewed trade tensions. Flexibility for willing partners White House National Economic Council head Kevin Hassett signalled that there could be “wiggle room” for countries negotiating in good faith. Speaking to CBS News, Hassett suggested Trump might offer extra time to partners prepared to make meaningful concessions. Stephen Miran, chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, echoed this optimism in an interview with ABC News. He highlighted positive signals from discussions with Europe and India, saying countries demonstrating goodwill could secure more favourable tariff terms or even a delay in the deadline. Focus on key trade partners As per Reuters, the Trump administration is prioritising negotiations with 18 major trading partners accounting for 95 per cent of the US trade deficit. But smaller economies are also being pressed to strike deals quickly. Thailand, for example, is scrambling to avoid a 36 per cent tariff. The country’s finance minister told Bloomberg News it will offer greater market access for US agricultural and industrial goods, while promising increased purchases of US energy and Boeing jets. India deal seen nearing conclusion India is also racing to finalise an agreement. According to CNBC-TV18, India and the United States could announce a mini trade deal within the next two days. The average tariff on Indian goods shipped to the US is expected to settle at around 10 per cent if the deal is concluded, potentially sparing both economies deeper disruption. White House officials are pointing to framework deals with Britain and Vietnam as models for these negotiations. Hassett argued these arrangements show Trump’s tariff threats are pushing manufacturing and investment back to the United States. High-stakes strategy Miran praised the deal with Vietnam as highly favourable to the United States. He described it as “extremely one-sided,” allowing Washington to impose significant tariffs on Vietnamese exports while enjoying near-zero tariffs on American goods in return. Trump’s approach, combining aggressive deadlines with the promise of tailored deals, is classic high-stakes negotiation. By delaying the tariff hike while warning of its swift return, the White House message is clear: sign now or pay later. Whether this strategy will deliver durable agreements or provoke fresh trade tensions remains to be seen. For now, the world’s major economies have just weeks to avoid the next phase of Washington’s tariff escalation. (With inputs from the agencies)

The US has delayed its tariff hike to August 1, using the threat of steep duties to pressure global partners into swift trade concessions.

Trump delays tariff hike to August 1, urges quick trade deals

India and the United States are on the verge of finalising a mini trade deal, with a decision expected in the next 24 to 48 hours, according to a CNBC-TV18 report quoting government sources. The deal, if confirmed, would be a breakthrough ahead of a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), discussions for which are set to begin after July 9.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-s-new-america-party-gets-support-from-mark-cuban-anthony-scaramucci-here-s-who-wants-in-1751803571320">'Billionaire, Ex-Trump ally': Elon Musk’s new ‘America Party’ gets support from surprising allies: Here’s who wants in</a><h2>What’s in the mini trade deal?</h2>As per the report, both countries have completed negotiations on the smaller deal, which is expected to carry an average tariff of around 10%. While the exact details have not been made public, officials believe it could serve as a foundation for a larger trade deal.This comes as US President Donald Trump prepares to impose a wave of higher tariffs starting July 9. Earlier this year, Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on goods from nearly all trading partners, but held off implementing sharper increases to allow for talks.These hikes are now due to kick in, ranging between 10% and 70% depending on the country, unless bilateral deals are struck in time.<h2>Trump’s “take it or leave it” approach</h2>US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that Washington is close to finalising several trade deals ahead of the deadline. “We expect some big announcements in the coming days,” he told CNN’s State of the Union programme.Trump, meanwhile, told reporters on Air Force One that he had signed letters for 12 countries detailing new tariff rates on goods being sent to the US. “I signed some letters and they will go out on Monday, probably 12. Different amounts of money, different amounts of tariffs,” Trump said, without naming the countries.He added, “You know, with the UK, we did that. And it was great for both parties. With China, we did that, and I think it’s very good for both parties.” The letters, described as “take it or leave it” offers, are expected to go out just before the tariff hikes kick in.In addition to the 12 countries receiving Trump’s tariff letters, the US is also preparing to notify 100 smaller nations, many with limited trade volume, that they too could face steep import duties unless new deals are struck quickly.

As per the report, both countries have completed negotiations on the smaller deal, which is expected to carry an average tariff of around 10%. While the exact details have not been made public, officials believe it could serve as a foundation for a larger trade deal.

India and the United States are on the verge of finalising a mini trade deal, with a decision expected in the next 24 to 48 hours, according to a CNBC-TV18 report quoting government sources. The deal, if confirmed, would be a breakthrough ahead of a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), discussions for which are set to begin after July 9. Also read: 'Billionaire, Ex-Trump ally': Elon Musk’s new ‘America Party’ gets support from surprising allies: Here’s who wants in What’s in the mini trade deal? As per the report, both countries have completed negotiations on the smaller deal, which is expected to carry an average tariff of around 10%. While the exact details have not been made public, officials believe it could serve as a foundation for a larger trade deal. This comes as US President Donald Trump prepares to impose a wave of higher tariffs starting July 9. Earlier this year, Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on goods from nearly all trading partners, but held off implementing sharper increases to allow for talks. These hikes are now due to kick in, ranging between 10% and 70% depending on the country, unless bilateral deals are struck in time. Trump’s “take it or leave it” approach US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that Washington is close to finalising several trade deals ahead of the deadline. “We expect some big announcements in the coming days,” he told CNN’s State of the Union programme. Trump, meanwhile, told reporters on Air Force One that he had signed letters for 12 countries detailing new tariff rates on goods being sent to the US. “I signed some letters and they will go out on Monday, probably 12. Different amounts of money, different amounts of tariffs,” Trump said, without naming the countries. He added, “You know, with the UK, we did that. And it was great for both parties. With China, we did that, and I think it’s very good for both parties.” The letters, described as “take it or leave it” offers, are expected to go out just before the tariff hikes kick in. In addition to the 12 countries receiving Trump’s tariff letters, the US is also preparing to notify 100 smaller nations, many with limited trade volume, that they too could face steep import duties unless new deals are struck quickly.

As per the report, both countries have completed negotiations on the smaller deal, which is expected to carry an average tariff of around 10%. While the exact details have not been made public, officials believe it could serve as a foundation for a larger trade deal.

India-US to finalise 'mini trade deal' in next 24 hours: Can it help New Delhi avoid Trump’s ‘take it or leave it’ tariff letters?

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