US President Donald Trump claimed once again that India is willing to eliminate tariffs on American goods, suggesting a trade deal with New Delhi is imminent. In an interview, Trump labeled India “one of the highest tariff nations in the world” and stated that India had agreed to a 100% tariff cut for the US. He also mentioned he is in “no rush” to finalize the deal.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar swiftly rebutted Trump’s assertions, emphasizing that trade talks are ongoing and complex. He reiterated that no agreement is finalized until all details are settled and insisted that any trade pact must be mutually beneficial for both countries. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is currently in Washington to lead further discussions with USTR Jamieson Greer and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
India is pushing for duty concessions on sectors like textiles, leather, gems, and agriculture, while the US seeks market access for industrial goods, electric vehicles, wines, and agri-products such as apples and tree nuts. Trump’s statements come as part of a broader pressure campaign ahead of the 90-day tariff suspension deadline, which ends on July 8, adding urgency to the ongoing negotiations.