India-US Trade Deal on the Horizon: Finalization Could Happen Soon

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that the first phase of the India-US trade deal could be finalized by November. He said that the discussions between the two countries are moving in a positive direction and both sides are satisfied with the progress made so far. While talking to reporters, Goyal said that in February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump had directed their ministers to work on this agreement and finalize the first phase by November this year.

Goyal further said that the first phase of this trade deal should be completed by November 2025, and since March, discussions are going on very seriously in a very good atmosphere on this subject and progress is being made. He also said that both sides are satisfied with this progress. Goyal's statement has come at a time when there has been a positive dialogue between Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media regarding the trade deal. Trump wrote on his social media platform 'Truth Social' that he is happy with the ongoing talks between the two countries and he is confident that both countries will reach a successful conclusion. Trump further said, "I am happy to announce that India and the United States are continuing talks to remove trade barriers between the two countries." He also said that he is looking forward to talking to his "very good friend" Prime Minister Modi in the coming weeks.

Reacting to the post, Prime Minister Modi described the US as his close friend and natural partner. The Prime Minister said that the trade deal will help unleash the immense potential of the India-US partnership and assured that both teams are working to conclude the discussions as soon as possible. Trump later re-shared Prime Minister Modi's post, which shows that both countries are positive about the trade deal.