On May 15, 2025, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed recent comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a proposed India-U.S. trade deal. Trump had claimed that India offered the U.S. a deal with “basically zero tariffs.” In response, Jaishankar emphasized that trade negotiations between the two nations are ongoing and complex, stating that no final decisions have been made.
Jaishankar highlighted the importance of mutual benefit in any trade agreement, asserting that both countries must find the terms acceptable. He noted that discussions are still in progress, and it would be premature to make any judgments until all aspects are settled. mint
The minister’s remarks come ahead of Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s scheduled visit to Washington on May 17, where he will engage in further discussions concerning the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).
India is particularly interested in securing reduced U.S. tariffs on labor-intensive sectors, aiming to support domestic industries and enhance bilateral economic growth.
While Trump’s comments have generated optimism in financial markets, with Indian equities experiencing a notable uptick, Jaishankar’s clarification underscores the need for patience and thorough negotiation to achieve a balanced and mutually beneficial trade deal.
