"Not Rushing, But Talks Are On": Trump Hints at India Trade Access

President Donald Trump has strongly hinted that a long-awaited interim trade agreement between the United States and India could soon be finalized, potentially giving American companies greater access to Indian markets-similar to the recent trade pact the US signed with Indonesia.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said, "We made a deal with Indonesia... we have full access into Indonesia," noting that India appears to be progressing on a similar path. "India is basically working along that same line. We are going to have access to India," the president added, referring to trade negotiations currently underway between New Delhi and Washington.

The proposed deal is focused on ensuring reciprocal tariffs remain below 20 percent, with the US already sending out letters to several countries-including India-outlining the new tariff structures, which are set to take effect from August 1 unless alternative arrangements are reached.

Trump also hinted that the India deal would be among several new trade announcements expected soon from his administration.

While Washington is pushing for broader access, especially in agriculture and dairy, India has adopted a cautious stance, emphasizing that it will not rush into the agreement. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently reaffirmed that India will enter a deal only when it is fully negotiated and aligned with national interests.

India has so far refused to offer dairy sector concessions in any of its free trade agreements and remains firm in its position during talks. New Delhi is pressing for the removal of an additional 26% tariff and seeks reductions in duties on steel (50%), aluminium, and automobiles (25%).

An Indian commerce ministry delegation is currently in Washington for another round of trade discussions aimed at resolving outstanding issues and avoiding the retaliatory tariffs announced by Trump on April 2. Originally set to take effect in July, those tariffs have now been deferred to August 1, giving both sides a window to finalize the agreement.

The success of the US-Indonesia agreement is seen as a model for what could be achieved with India, as Trump continues to pursue stronger bilateral trade ties in the Indo-Pacific.