India’s efforts to strengthen trade relations with the United States are making notable strides, as a negotiating team from India is currently in the US, aiming to craft a mutually beneficial deal. Sources from the government confirmed on October 15 that discussions are ongoing and focused on identifying a “win-win solution” for both nations.
The ambassador-designate was recently in India, holding consultations with key stakeholders, which were reportedly productive. Meanwhile, the Indian negotiating team in the US continues to engage with their American counterparts, assessing pathways to boost trade while addressing existing challenges, including tariffs. Officials emphasized that roughly 45 percent of India’s exports to the US remain untaxed, highlighting the potential for further trade growth.
On October 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with US President Donald Trump to congratulate him on the Gaza peace plan and, during the conversation, reviewed ongoing trade discussions. Despite the 50 percent tariffs imposed by the US on Indian imports, PM Modi noted “good progress” in negotiations, underscoring a positive trajectory in bilateral engagements.
The trade dialogue involves both trade-related and non-trade issues, with five rounds of negotiations already completed. Last month, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal led a delegation to New York to continue talks, meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and the US ambassador-designate to India, Sergio Gor. Earlier, discussions were also held between Indian and US chief negotiators, Rajesh Agrawal and Brendan Lynch, on the framework of a proposed bilateral trade agreement.
The US remains India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $131.84 billion in 2024-25, including $86.5 billion in Indian exports. Both countries are targeting the fall 2025 deadline for the first phase of a formal trade agreement, reflecting mutual commitment to deepen economic cooperation.
Officials expressed optimism that continued dialogue will expand market access, enhance export potential, and address tariff-related concerns. The negotiations signal India’s proactive approach in strengthening ties with its largest trading partner, while also securing sustainable, equitable solutions for businesses and industries on both sides.
