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India and the United States are actively engaged in discussions to resolve trade and tariff-related issues, signaling renewed momentum toward a comprehensive trade agreement. According to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, both sides are working through legacy irritants in a constructive spirit, aiming to build a future-focused economic partnership.

He emphasized that India is no longer perceived as a “protectionist” economy, and global perceptions have shifted, particularly after India’s proactive role in restructuring supply chains during the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S., he noted, sees India as a reliable and democratic partner amid rising concerns over global economic volatility and China-centric manufacturing models.

Jaishankar pointed out that both governments are showing seriousness about concluding trade negotiations, which have remained incomplete for years due to disagreements over tariffs on agricultural goods, medical devices, and technology products. The renewed engagement reflects the larger geopolitical context in which economic and strategic cooperation between the two democracies has taken center stage.

The trade talks are being held alongside broader cooperation in defense, technology, and energy, as both nations aim to establish a resilient, rules-based global trade order. The potential trade pact is expected to unlock greater market access, investment flows, and innovation collaboration in key sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals, clean energy, and digital trade.

Jaishankar also highlighted how India’s internal reforms—including Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and infrastructure modernization—are drawing interest from global investors, including American companies. These changes, he said, make India a more attractive and competitive trading partner.

In essence, India-U.S. tariff negotiations are not just about resolving past disputes but about crafting a long-term economic alignment in an increasingly polarized world economy.

Curated by Gurdeep Singh, Senior Editor at http://www.boldvoices.in