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High-level delegation in Washington
A high-level Indian delegation, led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, is in Washington to resume negotiations with their American counterparts. According to reports, the US has shown a renewed willingness to close the chapter on the prolonged standoff, raising hopes for a meaningful outcome.
This is not the first time optimism has surrounded the deal. Earlier this year, officials from both sides had cleared a draft, only for the White House to push for additional concessions, derailing the process. Relations soured further after the Trump administration slapped a 25% tariff on Indian exports and imposed punitive duties on India’s purchase of Russian oil. Trump went so far as to accuse New Delhi of “financing the war in Ukraine” by continuing energy trade with Moscow.
Will the US tariffs stay?
Recent weeks have seen a change in tone. Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran said in Kolkata last week that the additional 25% US tariffs would not extend beyond November 30.
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The thaw became more visible when Trump himself acknowledged ongoing negotiations, expressing confidence that “there would be no difficulty” in resolving trade differences. Modi echoed that sentiment, calling India and the US “natural partners” who would work together to secure “a brighter, more prosperous future”.