Minister Piyush Goyal, US Trade Representative Greer hold key talks on India-US Trade Pact

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Tuesday began crucial discussions in New Delhi aimed at finalising the first phase of the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

Greer is visiting India for high-level negotiations focused on resolving pending issues and advancing the framework of the trade pact. Senior officials, including Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal and India's chief negotiator Darpan Jain, are participating in the discussions at Vanijya Bhawan.

The meeting follows earlier chief negotiator-level talks held in June and comes amid growing optimism about the agreement. US President Donald Trump recently stated that both countries are “very close” to concluding the deal, while Goyal has expressed confidence that the first phase could be finalised soon.

The trade negotiations have gained significance following changes in the US tariff regime. Earlier, both countries had agreed on a framework that envisaged lower tariffs and expanded market access. However, subsequent legal and policy changes in the US have prompted both sides to revisit parts of the agreement.

India is seeking improved tariff advantages for its exports compared to competing economies in Asia. The proposed pact is also expected to boost trade in sectors such as energy, technology, manufacturing, agriculture, aviation and critical minerals.

The United States remained India's second-largest trading partner in 2025-26. During the fiscal year, India's exports to the US reached USD 87.3 billion, while imports stood at USD 52.9 billion, reflecting the growing importance of economic ties between the two countries.