The United States and India are actively working toward a trade agreement, according to USTR Jamieson Greer. Speaking at the Economic Club of New York, Greer described India’s approach in the negotiations as pragmatic and constructive, emphasizing that both nations are seeking a mutually beneficial deal.
Greer addressed the recently discussed 25% tariffs imposed on India over its purchase of Russian oil. He stressed that the United States is not attempting to dictate policies to a sovereign nation, but rather encouraging alignment with broader international objectives. Greer noted that India has demonstrated an understanding of the US goal to end the conflict in Ukraine and is taking steps to diversify its energy sources accordingly.
The USTR also highlighted that India is not the only country purchasing Russian oil. Previous US administrations, including the Trump administration, had pressed European and Chinese counterparts to reduce such imports. This context underscores the broader geopolitical and economic considerations influencing the ongoing discussions.
These statements followed a high-level meeting between Greer and India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on September 22 in New York. The discussions aimed to address critical sticking points and explore pathways to a preliminary agreement. According to an official statement from India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the talks were constructive, with both sides engaging on multiple aspects of the potential trade deal.
Experts suggest that if successful, the agreement could enhance bilateral trade flows worth billions of dollars, support economic growth, and strengthen strategic ties. Both governments remain optimistic that an interim understanding can be reached in the near term, paving the way for more comprehensive negotiations in the months ahead.
