India and US push ahead on bilateral trade deal ahead of July tariff deadline

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met in New Delhi for a two‑day ministerial review of the proposed India‑US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The discussions covered core elements such as enhanced market access, digital trade, reduction of non‑tariff barriers, supply‑chain resilience and cooperation in strategic sectors like semiconductors, artificial intelligence and critical minerals. Both sides said substantial progress has been made but did not confirm that all outstanding issues are resolved before the July 24 deadline, when a temporary 10 % U.S. tariff on Indian imports expires. Goyal praised Greer’s “leadership” and the “constructive and forward‑looking” talks, while Greer highlighted the desire to take the relationship to the next level across trade and future technologies. India continues to press for preferential tariff treatment, seeking rates lower than those offered to regional rivals such as Pakistan. The parties reaffirmed commitment to a balanced, commercially meaningful agreement that would benefit businesses, farmers, workers and consumers in both countries, but a final interim deal remains pending.