India, US continue talks on trade deal

New Delhi

India and the United States are still negotiating a bilateral trade agreement, with no final deal signed yet. The Indian government told Parliament on Tuesday that it is handling the talks carefully to protect the country’s interests and address all concerns linked to such agreements.

Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, stated in a written reply to the Lok Sabha that every free trade agreement (FTA) is different and aims to benefit both countries. “The government ensures that India’s interests are protected,” he said. An FTA comes into force only after both countries sign and approve it.

Talks are ongoing to reach an interim deal with the US before the August 1 deadline.

Meanwhile, Prasada also confirmed that India and the UK have finished talks on their FTA. The agreement was concluded on May 6, 2025. It covers trade liberalisation, tariff cuts, and deeper economic cooperation across sectors.

The India-UK FTA promises better access for Indian exports like textiles, marine goods, leather, footwear, toys, gems and jewellery, engineering items, auto parts, and chemicals. It also encourages better rules and transparency in line with India’s push for domestic reforms.