India-U.S. Trade Deal Nears Finalization, Commerce Secretary Confirms

In a recent announcement, Indian Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarawal revealed that the long-anticipated trade pact between India and the United States is nearing completion. Speaking in Mumbai on September 9, 2026, Agarawal noted that only a few outstanding issues remain before the deal can be officially signed.

Agarawal emphasized the necessity for both nations to grant preferential market access to each other as part of the agreement. He pointed out that while India operates under Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariffs, the U.S. employs executive tariffs, which complicates the negotiation process. However, he is optimistic that a signing will occur at the right moment.

As bilateral trade continues to grow, with India’s merchandise exports to the U.S. rising 3% to $34.5 billion and imports increasing by 22.42%, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is set to further discuss the trade pact during his upcoming visit to the U.S. for the G-20 Trade Ministerial. The negotiations are said to be progressing well, with hopes for resolution within the next few months.

Source: www.thehindu.com