US Commerce Secretary Lighthizer: US-India trade agreement "about to be finalized"

United States Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick expressed optimism that a trade agreement between India and the United States could be reached soon. Speaking at the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum in Washington, he said, "It is foreseeable that the United States and India will reach an agreement in the near future," and described himself as "very optimistic" about it. He added, "We have found a balance point that is in the interest of both countries." When discussing trade negotiations with India, he further stated, "It is an undisputed fact that the earlier participating countries get more favorable conditions." He praised India for striving to be one of the first countries to reach an agreement. Lutnick once again expressed concern about India's "highly protectionist tariff policy," emphasizing that reducing tariffs is key to establishing a "healthy trade relationship." "This administration tends to be candid about pointing out issues. India's tariff policy does have a strong protectionist tone one product has a 100% tariff, another product also has a 100% tariff. And when you ask for the reason, the answer often is 'unclear, it has always been this way.'" The Trump administration has made it clear that reducing tariff barriers and expanding market access for American businesses are top negotiation priorities. The United States previously announced equal tariff measures on several countries, including India (Indian goods facing a 26% tariff), but decided to temporarily postpone implementation for 90 days to leave room for negotiations, with the final deadline set for July 8, 2025. It has been reported that India is considering reaching a trade agreement with the United States in three phases.