India-US Trade Deal May Take Longer as USTR Probe Continues, Fresh Talks Expected Soon
A new round of trade talks between India and the United States is expected soon, as a US trade delegation is likely to visit India. However, the dates for the visit have not been finalised yet.
According to reports, discussions will focus on the ongoing Section 301 investigations being carried out by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). Because of this probe, any final India-US trade agreement is likely to be delayed until the investigation is completed.
Trade negotiations between both countries became more complex after a February ruling by the US Supreme Court declared reciprocal tariffs unlawful. Following the verdict, USTR launched investigations into India under the Trade Act of 1974.
The US has raised concerns over what it describes as excess production capacity in sectors such as steel, textiles, and solar modules. It has also alleged unfair advantages for Indian producers. India has strongly rejected these claims, saying there is no evidence supporting such accusations.
Earlier in April, officials from both countries held three days of talks in Washington, DC regarding the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). India said the meetings were positive and productive, covering areas such as market access, customs, investment, digital trade, and economic cooperation.
Meanwhile, trade relations continue to shift globally, with China overtaking the US to become India’s largest trading partner in 2025–26.
Despite the delay, both sides appear committed to continuing negotiations, keeping hopes alive for a major trade deal in the future.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
