India Denies Trump’s Claim on Tariff Cuts, Seeks Time for Trade Talks

The Indian government has officially denied any commitment to reducing import duties on U.S. products, contradicting President Donald Trump’s recent claims that New Delhi had agreed to “cut their tariffs way down.”

According to a report, India has sought time until September to address the tariff concerns raised by the U.S., while focusing on a broader, long-term bilateral trade agreement with Washington.

Trump’s Trade War Targets India Again

Trump, just weeks into his second term, has intensified his protectionist trade policies, targeting both allies and rivals.

• Trump has repeatedly criticized India’s tariff policies, calling them “massive” and accusing India of unfair trade practices.
• During a speech last week, Trump claimed India had agreed to significantly reduce its tariffs after his administration “exposed them.”
• However, Indian officials refuted these claims, saying no commitments had been made regarding tariff reductions.

The government stated that instead of immediate tariff adjustments, India and the U.S. are working toward a long-term, mutually beneficial trade agreement.

India’s Trade Strategy: Long-Term Focus Over Immediate Concessions

India’s Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal informed a parliamentary panel that discussions with the U.S. prioritize long-term trade cooperation rather than quick tariff concessions.

• India and the U.S. have a strong trade relationship, with America being a key market for India’s IT and services sector.
• In recent years, India has purchased billions of dollars’ worth of U.S. military equipment, strengthening defense ties.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump share a close diplomatic rapport, and the two nations are expected to finalize a comprehensive trade agreement soon.

Trump’s Potential India Visit & Quad Summit

There is speculation that Trump may visit India later this year for a Quad Summit, involving Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.

While tensions remain over tariffs, both governments continue to engage in negotiations, with a focus on strategic and economic cooperation. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of U.S.-India trade relations under Trump’s second presidency.