India and the United States have made “positive progress” in discussions on a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement, with officials from both sides meeting in Washington, D.C. between April 23 and 25. The talks come after a previous round of discussions held in New Delhi in March.
Officials from India’s Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative discussed a wide range of issues, including tariff and non-tariff matters. According to an official statement, the talks were productive and focused on paving the way for the first phase of the agreement, which both sides hope to conclude by Fall 2025.
The two countries are exploring opportunities for early “mutual wins” in select sectors as part of a multi-sector agreement that is being negotiated. While sector-specific discussions have so far taken place virtually, in-person engagements are expected to begin at the end of May.
The trade talks are part of a broader push to deepen economic ties and strengthen supply chain linkages, in line with commitments made in the Leaders’ Statement issued in February 2025.
Officials indicated that both sides remain committed to advancing the agreement through constructive dialogue and sustained engagement.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday said many top trading partners of the United States had made ‘very good’ proposals to avert U.S. tariffs, and one of the first deals to be signed would likely be with India.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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