New Delhi: India and the United States are on the verge of finalising a long awaited trade agreement, with only a few outstanding issues left to resolve. According to Christopher Landau, both countries are “very close” to sealing the deal after months of detailed negotiations.
Speaking during the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Maryland, Landau emphasised the importance of concluding the agreement soon. He noted that while progress has been steady, both sides must overcome the final hurdles to reach closure and shift focus to other strategic priorities.
The proposed agreement builds on a framework announced earlier this year between India and the United States. It aims to strengthen bilateral economic ties and expand trade volumes significantly, with a long term goal of reaching 500 billion dollars in trade by 2030.
India is seeking improved access to American markets as part of the deal, while the United States has proposed tariff reductions on Indian goods. Earlier discussions included plans to lower tariffs and ease trade restrictions, although certain aspects have required reconsideration due to recent legal developments in the US.
A ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States on tariff related measures has prompted India to review and adjust elements of the agreement to safeguard its economic interests under the evolving global trade framework.
Landau also highlighted India’s growing global importance, pointing to its economic potential and expanding role on the world stage. He expressed confidence that finalising the agreement would mark a significant step forward in strengthening ties between the two nations.
With negotiations in their final stage, both countries are now focused on resolving remaining differences and formalising a deal that could reshape their economic partnership in the years ahead.
