Trump Says US and India Are ‘Very Close’ to Finalising New Tariff Deal

Former US President Donald Trump has said that India and the US are on the verge of finalising a new tariff agreement aimed at improving trade ties. While details remain under wraps, Trump hinted that discussions are progressing well. This update comes at a time when global trade partnerships are being closely watched, and such a deal could carry significant implications for businesses and consumers in both countries.

What Trump Said
Speaking at a public event, Trump mentioned that the US is “very close” to sealing a tariff deal with India. He didn’t give a timeline or specifics but stressed the progress made in ongoing negotiations. His comments have sparked fresh interest in Indo-US trade dynamics, especially with both countries gearing up for major elections.

What This Deal Could Mean
A tariff deal generally involves both countries agreeing to reduce or eliminate certain import taxes. For India, this could mean easier access for products like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural goods. For the US, it could open the door for tech, defence, and agricultural exports into Indian markets.

Such an agreement, if finalised, would benefit exporters, ease supply chain pressures, and potentially lower consumer prices. It also signals a softening of trade tensions that had flared during Trump’s previous tenure.

Why It Matters for Indian Businesses
For small and mid-sized manufacturers across Tier 2 cities in India—especially those involved in exports—such a deal could mean better market access and more stable pricing. Cities like Surat, Ludhiana, Kanpur, and Coimbatore stand to gain if export barriers are eased.

Additionally, Indian startups in sectors like tech and pharma could also find it easier to scale globally, especially if regulatory requirements are streamlined through the agreement.

What’s at Stake Politically
Trade relations between India and the US have seen ups and downs, especially during Trump’s time in office. While some of his policies were seen as aggressive, there’s now cautious optimism that a more balanced approach may be in the works.

With the US elections approaching and India heading into key political phases too, trade deals like these often become strategic talking points that go beyond economics.

Conclusion
While it remains to be seen when and how this new tariff deal will be finalised, Trump’s comments suggest that both sides are actively engaged in shaping a trade future that suits mutual interests. For Indian businesses and exporters, especially in emerging cities, this development is worth watching closely—it could mark the beginning of a more predictable and profitable phase in Indo-US trade relations.