India to advance US Trade deal at right time, says Commerce Secretary
India is waiting for an “opportune time” to advance a proposed trade agreement with the United States, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said, indicating that ongoing bilateral discussions remain active despite regulatory consultations under US trade laws.
Agrawal stated that the next round of talks between India and the US trade team is expected in June, with both sides continuing engagement on key issues related to tariffs and market access.
He confirmed that India has joined consultations under Section 301 investigations initiated by the US, adding that Washington will decide the next course of action after the consultation process concludes.
“We are awaiting the opportune time to take forward the US trade deal,” he said, underscoring that negotiations are progressing but timing remains crucial for further advancement.
The discussions come amid continued scrutiny under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, which allows investigations into alleged unfair trade practices. The US has reportedly raised concerns over excess capacity in sectors such as petrochemicals, steel and solar modules, along with trade imbalances in textiles, healthcare, construction materials and automobiles.
India has rejected these allegations, maintaining that its trade policies are compliant with global norms.
Officials on both sides are expected to continue consultations in the coming months as part of efforts to narrow differences and potentially move toward a broader trade framework.
