India-US trade talks reach plateau as tariffs limit progress

US: The United States under President Donald Trump is engaged in bilateral trade talks with India while addressing trade imbalances through various policy tools including tariffs. Its Trade Representative has described the negotiations as being in the final stages but not yet at a point of imminent agreement, following recent meetings with Indian officials. India: India is a major global economy actively pursuing bilateral trade agreements to enhance market access and manage trade relationships with partners like the United States. Its Finance Minister recently stated that ongoing negotiations with the US on an interim trade deal have reached a plateau, where further concessions would be very difficult for both sides. Tariff Dynamics: Tariffs are playing a prominent role in the bilateral discussions, with India criticizing their use as a unilateral measure outside traditional negotiations. Negotiation Status: Indian and US officials have described the interim trade deal talks as advanced yet stalled at key sticking points, with both sides noting limited scope for additional concessions. Diplomatic Engagement: Recent high-level interactions include a call between the leaders and meetings between India's Commerce Minister and the US Trade Representative to advance the talks.