Discussions with US officials on proposed trade deal positive, forward looking: Commerce Ministry

17 Sep 2025 Evaluate

Amid ongoing trade talks between Indian and the US, the Commerce Ministry has said that the day-long discussions with visiting US Chief Negotiator Brendan Lynch and its team on a proposed bilateral trade agreement were positive and forward looking. It noted that both sides agreed to push for an early and mutually beneficial conclusion of the agreement. The Ministry added ‘It was decided to intensify efforts to achieve early conclusion of a mutually beneficial trade agreement’. From India's side, the discussions were led by Rajesh Agarwal, Special Secretary, Department of Commerce.

The ministry further said both sides will continue the discussions in virtual mode and will also decide on a mutually convenient date for the next physical meeting. The day-long talks are important as the US has imposed a steep 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods. This was the first visit by a high-ranking US trade official after the imposition of a 25 per cent tariff and an additional 25 per cent penalty on Indian goods entering the American market for buying Russian crude oil.

In February, the leaders of the two countries directed officials to negotiate a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). It was planned to conclude the first tranche of the pact by the fall of 2025. So far, five rounds of negotiations have been held, and the talks for the sixth round, which were scheduled from August 25-29, were postponed following the imposition of the high import duties. Meanwhile, India defended purchasing Russian crude oil, saying it was driven by national interest and market dynamics.

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