The warmth of Washington’s words could not hide the reality of its actions. Only days earlier, the Trump administration doubled down on tariffs, raising duties on Indian imports to 50%.
The White House claimed India’s purchase of Russian oil was “fueling Putin’s war machine.” President Trump, who has frequently labelled India a “tariff king,” argued that Washington’s tough stance was justified by the trade deficit and India’s continued defence and energy dealings with Moscow.
Back home, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal sought to reassure Parliament, saying the impact of the tariffs was being studied: “All steps will be taken to protect the national interest,” he assured, stressing that small entrepreneurs, farmers, and livestock rearers would not be left vulnerable.
Despite the frosty trade atmosphere, both countries continue to negotiate for an interim trade deal. Talks for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) began in March this year, with an ambitious target to wrap up the first stage by October-November 2025.
India, however, has expressed serious reservations over US demands to open up its agriculture and dairy sectors — lifelines for millions of households