India and the United States have begun negotiations on a phased bilateral trade agreement, aiming to finalize it before new tariffs come into effect. The deal, currently under discussion in Washington, may provide better access for goods and reduce trade barriers, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal leading the Indian delegation.

BulletsIn

• India, US negotiating a three-phase trade deal before tariffs hit
• Talks led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Washington
• First phase to include easier access for industrial and agricultural goods
• May reduce non-tariff barriers like strict quality checks
• Second phase likely between Sept–Nov; covers 19 priority areas
• May align with Trump’s potential India visit for Quad summit
• Final phase to be a full agreement, needing US Congress approval in 2026
• Deal follows PM Modi’s February visit to White House
• India among first to initiate trade talks with Trump administration
• India hopes to secure early trade gains before tariff deadline