India is negotiating a three-stage trade deal with the US. The first, or “mini deal,” may be completed before July 8 to avoid reciprocal tariffs. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is currently in Washington leading discussions.
The interim deal may focus on industrial goods, select farm products, and non-tariff barriers like quality standards. A second tranche could arrive by September–November, aligned with a potential Trump visit. The final agreement will require US Congress approval and could come next year.
India seeks market access for labour-intensive goods, while the US is pushing for concessions on dairy, EVs, and processed foods. The goal is to secure early wins before the return of higher tariffs.