A delegation of Indian officials, led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal, is set to visit Washington this week to continue negotiations on a proposed bilateral trade deal, signaling renewed momentum in discussions with the Trump administration. Officials have indicated that both sides aim to finalize key aspects of the deal within the coming weeks. The announcement follows a recent visit by US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor to India, during which he met Prime Minister Modi and held talks with Agarwal. Gor shared on social media that he discussed strengthening economic ties and encouraging increased investment by Indian companies in the United States.
India is seeking the removal of 25% “secondary tariffs” imposed on certain Indian imports, including goods affected by India’s purchase of Russian crude. The high tariffs have particularly impacted sectors such as textiles, gems and jewelry, leather, and footwear. Meanwhile, discussions have largely focused on India reducing import duties on select products, including agricultural items, in exchange for more favorable “reciprocal tariffs” on its exports.
Gor’s statements also highlight that the US is encouraging Indian firms to expand operations and investment within the country, supporting the Trump administration’s claim that its trade negotiations have led to $17 trillion in investment commitments—figures that have faced scrutiny from analysts. Some Indian IT companies are actively exploring office expansions and local hiring, while a few have already made direct investments in the US.
In addition to seeking tariff relief, India has indicated willingness to import more American oil and gas, aiming to reduce the trade surplus it currently maintains with the US. The ongoing dialogue underscores the complex balancing act of securing favorable trade conditions for Indian exporters while addressing Washington’s strategic and economic priorities. The delegation’s visit is seen as a crucial step toward advancing a mutually beneficial trade agreement between the two nations.
