Tue, 03 Feb 2026

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 Hope and uncertainty as India and US strike long-delayed trade deal

Indian industry has welcomed lower tariffs, but experts caution against celebration until details are clearer.
India paid highest tariffs globally after Trump raised duties on Indian goods from 25% to 50% in August last year. India's textile exporters welcome the announcement, saying it will allow them to compete effectively in the US market. Trade experts warn of unanswered questions: what products are covered, timelines, and zero non-tariff barriers, especially in sensitive areas like agriculture. US Secretary of Agriculture says under the deal, the US will export more farm products to India's massive market, lifting prices and pumping cash into rural America. India has not commented on Trump's claims that Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil and buy more from the US and potentially Venezuela.
  >>