Breaking: India-US trade: Piyush Goyal meets US Trade Representative, highlights ‘India First’ approach amid Trump tariff threats…..Read More

Goyal’s US visit follows discussions between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where both leaders expressed their intention to negotiate the initial phase of a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by fall 2025.

Amid Donald Trump’s tariff threats, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently held a “forward-looking” discussion with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, focusing on advancing a mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement. Goyal emphasised that India’s approach will align with the principles of “India First,” “Viksit Bharat,” and the nation’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Sharing insights from the meeting on his X timeline, Goyal highlighted the commitment to strengthening trade ties. “Had a forward looking discussion with @USTradeRep Jamieson Greer on a mutually beneficial Bilateral Trade Agreement. Our approach will be guided by ‘India First’, ‘Viksit Bharat’ and our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

Goyal’s US visit follows discussions between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where both leaders expressed their intention to negotiate the initial phase of a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by fall 2025. The leaders also committed to appointing senior representatives to spearhead these negotiations.

During their recent meeting, President Trump and PM Modi resolved to expand trade and investment, aiming to enhance prosperity, bolster national strength, encourage innovation, and strengthen supply chain resilience. A significant milestone set during the discussions was “Mission 500,” an ambitious goal to more than double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030.

President Trump, during his second term, has reiterated the need for tariff reciprocity, indicating that the US will match tariffs imposed by other nations, including India. The US has frequently raised concerns over India’s high tariff rates, suggesting that achieving fair trade would require strategic adjustments.

US Trade Secretary Howard Lutnick recently expressed interest in negotiating a broad-based trade agreement with India. Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Lutnick noted that finding a mutually beneficial solution would necessitate mutual understanding and cooperation. He emphasised the importance of considering the entire trade relationship rather than focusing on individual products.

Both nations have demonstrated their commitment to enhancing trade relations, with ongoing discussions set to shape the future of India-US economic cooperation.