The United States and India are preparing for the next round of high-level trade negotiations, with Washington’s chief negotiator scheduled to arrive in New Delhi tonight. Formal talks are expected to resume tomorrow, marking a renewed push to bridge differences and move closer to a long-awaited trade agreement.
Optimism from Washington
The momentum received a boost during recent testimony in Washington. At his Senate confirmation hearing, Sergio Gor, President Donald Trump’s nominee for US Ambassador to India, expressed confidence that the two nations were nearing a breakthrough. “We’re actively negotiating with the Indians right now… we’re not that far apart on a deal,” Gor said, highlighting that the discussions have advanced into the “nitty-gritty” phase. His remarks reflect growing optimism on both sides, as negotiations have been progressing steadily since March this year.
India’s Timeline: November 2025 Target
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal reinforced this positive outlook last week, stating that the first tranche of the trade agreement could be concluded by November 2025. Goyal emphasised that talks have been conducted in a “very good environment” and that both delegations are “satisfied with the progress so far.” The November target now serves as a key milestone for both governments, signalling determination to fast-track the process.
US–India Relations vs. China Factor
Beyond trade, Gor also drew attention to the broader geopolitical context. He described US–India ties as stronger and more aligned than India’s relationship with China, pointing to New Delhi’s concerns over “Chinese expansionism.” According to Gor, the shared apprehension over Beijing’s growing influence in the region strengthens Washington and New Delhi’s strategic partnership, making cooperation on trade even more significant.
Trump–Modi Personal Rapport
The negotiations have also been buoyed by the personal bond between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump. In recent social media exchanges, Trump praised the progress of the talks and said he looked forward to speaking with his “very good friend” Modi soon. Responding on X, Modi described the US as a “close friend and natural partner,” noting that the agreement would help unlock the “limitless potential” of bilateral ties. Trump later reshared Modi’s message, further highlighting the goodwill between the two leaders.
Next Steps
As the US chief negotiator lands in India tonight, the agenda for the next round of talks includes discussions on tariff adjustments, easing market access, and regulatory clarity. With optimism from both capitals and November as the target, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the two nations can finalise the first stage of a landmark trade pact.
