USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer visits New Delhi, reviews progress on India-US Trade pact talks

The visit is being viewed as a significant milestone in ongoing negotiations aimed at securing a balanced and mutually beneficial trade pact between the two countries, according to a statement issued by the Indian government.

During the visit, Ambassador Greer held multiple rounds of discussions with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.

The two sides conducted a comprehensive review of key elements of the proposed BTA, including enhanced market access, digital trade, supply chain resilience, reduction of non-tariff barriers, and expanded cooperation in strategic sectors.

Both sides acknowledged substantial progress made by negotiating teams in recent months and welcomed the momentum generated through successive technical and ministerial-level engagements.

The discussions also focused on pathways to conclude an interim agreement, which is being seen as an important step toward a comprehensive trade deal.

"Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to an agreement that is balanced, commercially meaningful, and delivers tangible benefits for businesses, farmers, workers and consumers in both countries," the statement said.

Recognising the growing importance of the India-US economic partnership amid evolving global trade dynamics, New Delhi and Washington reiterated their shared objective of expanding bilateral trade, fostering innovation, and building resilient and trusted supply chains.

The two countries expressed confidence that ongoing negotiations would further deepen economic ties and strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Trump Signals Optimism on Trade Deal

The renewed momentum in trade talks comes as US President Donald Trump recently expressed confidence about reaching a major trade agreement with India.

Speaking during the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Trump said he was optimistic about the future of bilateral trade relations.

"We will have a great deal with India," Trump said, while also praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "fantastic leader" for whom he has "great respect."

The remarks marked another instance of Trump publicly complimenting Modi. In October 2025, he had described the Indian leader as the "nicest looking guy," highlighting the personal rapport he frequently references between the two leaders.

Praise Follows Months of Trade Tensions

Trump's positive comments come after a period of significant strain in bilateral trade relations.

Trade negotiations stalled last year, and Washington subsequently increased tariffs on Indian goods to 50 percent in August, making India one of the most heavily taxed US trading partners.

The tariff increase included an additional 25 percent levy intended to pressure New Delhi over its continued imports of Russian oil. Trump had repeatedly urged India to reduce purchases from Moscow, linking the issue to broader trade discussions.

Ambitious Trade Target Remains Intact

Despite the setbacks, India and the United States have maintained an ambitious goal of expanding bilateral trade to more than $500 billion by 2030.

As part of efforts to address the trade imbalance, New Delhi has indicated its willingness to increase imports of US energy products and defence equipment.

However, negotiations held last year failed to deliver a comprehensive agreement, leaving several key issues unresolved.

Trump's latest remarks, coupled with the progress reported during Ambassador Greer's visit, suggest a possible easing of tensions, even as significant differences continue to shape the trajectory of India-US trade relations.