Is a Trade Deal with India on the Horizon? Insights from Top US Official

Synopsis
As negotiations continue between the US and India, a potential trade deal is on the verge of completion, but hurdles remain. Insights from US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer shed light on the current status and historical context that could influence future agreements.
Key Takeaways
- The US and India are in advanced negotiations for a trade deal.
- Past negotiations have faced challenges due to changing US demands.
- Greer maintains regular communication with Indian trade officials.
- South Korea's trade proposals have been favorably received by the US.
- Historical context is crucial to understanding current negotiations.
Washington, May 1 (NationPress) The United States and India are nearing a trade agreement, though a final deal remains elusive, according to the leading US trade negotiator on Wednesday.
The discussions surrounding a US-India trade deal have captivated US media and policy analysts, especially as the urgency grows to finalize agreements before President Donald Trump's 90-day halt on implementing extensive tariffs on nearly all of America's trade partners.
“I wouldn’t describe it as being at the finish line, but we are close,” stated Jamieson Greer, the US Trade Representative, in a Fox News interview when asked about the status of the deal with India.
“I maintain regular contact with India's Trade Minister. My team visited India for a week, and they were here last week where I met with their chief negotiator,” he elaborated.
When inquired about US Vice-President J.D. Vance's upcoming visit to India, Greer highlighted the announcement of a framework for trade negotiations between the two nations.
Greer, a seasoned veteran at the US Trade Representative's office, previously served as Chief of Staff under Robert Lighthizer during President Trump's first term when the US and India were very close to finalizing a trade agreement.
This deal was anticipated to be announced and signed during President Trump's visit to India in February 2020; however, it fell apart following lengthy and challenging negotiations.
Indian trade negotiators held the US responsible, claiming they “constantly altered the goalposts.”
Greer expressed more optimism regarding a trade agreement with South Korea, stating that they have been quite proactive and that the US strategy aims to pursue the most ambitious proposals available.
“They’ve shown great initiative,” he remarked about the South Korean proposal.