India and US to Hold Crucial Trade Talks in Delhi, Addressing Recent Disputes

Trade discussions between India and the United States are restarting in New Delhi today, against the backdrop of recent disputes. The US had placed punitive tariffs on India because of its Russian oil purchases. The talks will involve a US delegation headed by Brendan Lynch, the Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, and Indian officials. The meeting is considered crucial for mapping out the future of trade negotiations. The US trade team’s visit for the sixth round of talks on a bilateral trade agreement, scheduled for August 25-29, was put off following the tariff implementation from Washington, with 25% imposed on the purchase of Russian oil. Despite the challenges, virtual meetings have been held weekly. India’s delegation will include Rajesh Agrawal, Special Secretary of the Commerce Ministry, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs.