US abruptly cancels India trade talks ahead of tariff deadline - Media
Illustrative photo: India already facing secondary US sanctions (Getty Images)
The United States has canceled trade negotiations with India that were planned for August 25–29. The visit of US trade representatives is expected to be rescheduled, NDTV informs.
Sources told NDTV that a US delegation was originally scheduled to visit India during this period. The visit was canceled and will likely be moved to a later date.
Washington and New Delhi have already discussed the matter, but a new schedule for the talks has not yet been agreed upon. The Indian government had high expectations for this round of negotiations, as the US plans to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods starting August 27.
The cancellation also raises questions about plans to complete trade talks between the two countries by September or October and to finalize a bilateral trade agreement during that period.
Indian government officials say India continues to negotiate the agreement with the United States. Talks are ongoing through multiple channels, from official minister-level meetings to diplomatic contacts, industry representatives, and unofficial intermediaries.
"Officials had described the US as a 'very important trade partner' and said the status of the next round of talks, scheduled for Aug. 25 in New Delhi, will only be clear closer to the date, while reaffirming the fall timeline," NDTV added.
US tariffs on India
Earlier, US President Donald Trump imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods. Following this, Indian oil refineries abruptly stopped purchasing Russian oil.
Sources say the refineries are awaiting government guidance after the US decision to impose the 25% tariff. Meanwhile, the plants have begun looking for new suppliers not linked to Russia.
