India-US Trade Talks Progressing Despite Sensitive Issues
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed on Wednesday that India and the United States are engaged in continuous discussions for a proposed bilateral trade agreement, with sensitive issues requiring careful negotiation.
Key Developments
- Five rounds of talks completed for first phase of agreement
- Deadline set for fall 2025 to conclude initial pact
- Indian officials led talks in Washington last month
“Talks are going well…and are continuously going on. There are many sensitive issues, many serious issues, so it is natural that it will take some time,” Goyal told media persons during his four-day official visit where he’s leading a business delegation.
The minister was responding to questions about progress on India-US negotiations. The discussions gained momentum after leaders from both countries directed officials in February this year to negotiate the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).
A team of Indian officials, headed by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, conducted three-day trade talks in Washington that concluded on October 17, marking continued progress toward the 2025 deadline.
