India, U.S. Make Headway in Bilateral Trade Agreement Talks, First Phase Targeted by Fall 2025

India and the United States have made steady progress in talks over a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement, following recent meetings held in Washington, D.C. from April 23 to 25. This round of discussions followed earlier talks in New Delhi in March.

Delegations from India’s Department of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office engaged in in-depth discussions on various trade issues, including both tariff and non-tariff barriers. An official statement described the talks as productive, with both sides aiming to finalize the first phase of the agreement by fall 2025.

As part of the broader negotiations for a multi-sector agreement, both countries are seeking early “mutual wins” in key industries. While most sector-specific conversations have occurred virtually so far, in-person meetings are set to begin by the end of May.

These discussions are aligned with the February 2025 Leaders’ Statement, which called for deeper economic cooperation and stronger supply chain partnerships.

Officials confirmed that both sides are committed to continuing constructive and sustained engagement to move the agreement forward.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted on Monday that several major U.S. trading partners had submitted strong proposals to avoid tariffs, adding that a deal with India could be among the first to be finalized.