US-India Business Council urges trade deal by 2026

The US-India Business Council (USIBC) has urged the governments of the United States and India to accelerate negotiations to finalize a bilateral trade agreement by the end of 2026. USIBC President Atul Keshap described the potential deal as a “historic” milestone that would strengthen the economic and strategic partnership between the two nations.

Keshap stated that a reciprocal trade agreement should focus on lowering trade barriers and minimizing tariffs to provide greater certainty for businesses. Such an agreement is expected to build on recent investment trends and could support manufacturing, expand consumer markets, and enhance cooperation in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

Business leaders in both countries continue to seek increased predictability regarding trade and investment. Key issues remaining in negotiations include market-access restrictions, regulatory barriers, and tariffs, all of which impact global supply chains and investment decisions.