India and the US Strengthen Commitment to Trade Talks
On Thursday, India and the United States highlighted their commitment to finalizing a trade agreement after recent discussions in New Delhi. The two nations made significant progress towards an interim trade deal following four days of talks led by US Chief Negotiator, who visited India from June 1 to 4, 2026.
According to a government statement, the delegation from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) focused on advancing negotiations for the Trade Agreement during their visit. The discussions were described as “constructive and positive,” covering important topics such as Trade in Goods, Non-Tariff Measures, Customs, Trade Facilitation, and Economic Security Alignment.
The statement emphasized a collaborative spirit, with both sides expressing their intention to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that would enhance their bilateral trade and economic relationship.
This development comes amidst concerns in the US regarding trade practices in 60 countries, including India. The US has raised issues about the failure of these nations to effectively prohibit imports of goods made with forced labor.
In a Tuesday announcement, the USTR indicated that under the US Trade Act of 1974, these countries’ actions were deemed “unreasonable” and could restrict American commerce.
India is among 54 countries identified by the USTR for not adequately enforcing a prohibition on forced labor in goods. This list also includes nations like Australia, China, and the UK.
US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer stressed the importance of addressing these practices, stating, “The failure of our most important trading partners to tackle the importation of goods made with forced labor is unacceptable. It creates an unlevel playing field for American workers.”
