India, US Open Fresh Talks on Bilateral Trade Deal Amid Tariff Tensions

New Delhi, September 16, 2025: India and the United States have begun high-level discussions today on the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). The discussions will aim to resolve the difference between the two countries that have escalated after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on the imports of Indian goods.

However, officials have communicated that these discussions are not officially the 6th round of negotiations, but are a precursor, and will set the stage for the next official round of discussions. Both India and US have been holding virtual exchanges every week even after both the countries postponed the August 25–29 round.

Brendan Lynch Leading the Discussions

Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, Brendan Lynch is leading the US delegation. For India, Special Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Rajesh Agrawal, is leading the discussions. Lynch arrived in New Delhi on Monday evening for a day-long meeting with Rajesh Agrawal. This marks the first-ever visit by a senior US trade official since the US imposed a total of 50% tariff on Indian goods over India’s purchase of Russian crude oil.

Tariff Dispute and Trade Concerns

Right after the 50% tariffs, the Indian government denounced the imposition and added that they were unreasonable and unfair. It also added that the tariffs will raise concern for sectors such as agriculture, dairy, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

It remains to be seen what the outcome is after the discussions are over. Investors will have to wait for the official 6th round of discussion for further cues.

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