Hopes for India-US Trade Agreement Rise

16-Jan-2026 05:59 PM

New Delhi. Hopes for a trade agreement between India and the United States have increased as both sides are focusing on resolving the remaining issues. Virtual talks are underway between India's Commerce Minister and the US Trade Representative, aimed at finalizing and implementing the trade agreement. It is understood that some concessions are being considered in the areas of textiles, leather, and marine products.

The Central Commerce Secretary has stated that both countries are very close to a trade agreement and that it will be signed once both sides agree. In fact, trade talks between India and the US have never broken down, and both countries have remained continuously engaged.

In the last week of December, the Indian Commerce Minister held a virtual meeting with the US Trade Representative. Discussions are underway to resolve the issues that are still pending, and a positive outcome is expected soon.

Notably, a delegation of officials from the US Trade Representative's office visited India on December 10, after which virtual meetings were held between the two countries. In January 2026, the new US Ambassador to India assumed office and presented his credentials to the President on January 14.

Earlier, on January 13, the Indian External Affairs Minister spoke with his US counterpart over the phone, discussing important minerals, nuclear cooperation, defense and energy sectors, as well as trade talks. Both countries are in favor of continuing discussions on various issues.

Although a hefty 50 percent import duty has been imposed on many Indian products in the US since the last week of August, exports from India to the US have continued. In December, total commercial goods exports from India to the US were recorded at $6.89 billion,

compared to $6.98 billion in November 2025 and $7.01 billion in December 2024. This clearly indicates that the hefty tariffs have not had any significant adverse effect on India's exports.