Because the July 9 commerce deadline looms, U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned that whereas commerce negotiations with India are “ongoing,” reaching an entire elimination of market restrictions stays “unthinkable”—signaling each optimism and skepticism in regards to the long-awaited deal.
At a White Home press convention, Trump addressed the slow-moving talks, stating, “We need to get a full commerce barrier dropping, which is unthinkable, and I’m not positive that that’s going to occur.” He acknowledged the restrictive nature of India’s market, including, “You possibly can’t stroll in there, you may’t even give it some thought.”
Regardless of the hardline rhetoric, Trump softened the urgency of his self-imposed July 9 deadline, noting it was “not a hard and fast date.” His remarks observe earlier optimism shared on the “Huge Lovely Invoice” occasion, the place he teased a “very large” commerce settlement with India, claiming, “We’re going to open up India…”
The potential deal goals to resolve longstanding friction over tariffs, market entry, and U.S. complaints about India’s protectionist insurance policies. The Trump administration has lengthy pushed for extra favorable circumstances for American companies in India, particularly in agriculture, expertise, and prescribed drugs.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick just lately echoed optimism, stating, “It’s best to count on a deal between america and India within the not-too-distant future.”
India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal additionally confirmed that the 2 nations are working towards a balanced settlement. “We’re negotiating to make a pleasant, truthful, equitable and balanced settlement to advertise enterprise,” he mentioned, referencing discussions held throughout a February 2025 assembly between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump.
Whereas each side proceed to push towards a breakthrough, the result stays unsure. Trump made clear that whereas he prefers making offers, he’s additionally open to a blunt different: “Some we’re simply going to ship them a letter, say thanks very a lot. You’re to pay 25, 35, 45 per cent.”
The stakes are excessive as each nations weigh strategic, financial, and political priorities—with international commerce watchers eyeing whether or not rhetoric will lastly translate into decision.
