US Trade Rep Greer Says India-US Bilateral Trade Deal Not Imminent

United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has indicated that discussions between the US and India on a bilateral trade deal are continuing. However, the deal is not yet imminent.

Greer said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump could speak again soon to review the progress of the negotiations.

US Trade Representative Robert Greer revealed that negotiations with India have reached a critical juncture. With both parties having pinpointed the remaining sticking points. The US and Indian governments have engaged in productive discussions.

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With Greer noting a recent conversation with Minister Piyush Goyal that highlighted the ongoing efforts to finalize the trade agreement. According to reports, the deal is nearing completion, with President Trump and Prime Minister Modi having held a constructive call on Tuesday morning.

Despite the progress, Greer cautioned that no immediate resolution is imminent, highlighting the need for continued diplomatic engagement.

The latest comments came after Union commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal held talks with Greer on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers' Meeting in Milwaukee. The meeting was part of ongoing bilateral efforts to conclude a balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington.

Goyal had earlier said that the discussions were aimed at an early conclusion of an interim agreement under the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). Had a productive discussion with USTR Greer towards early conclusion of a mutually beneficial interim agreement under the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement. We also exchanged views on G20 deliberations under US Chairship.

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India and the US had announced in February this year that they had finalised the framework for the initial phase of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). However, negotiations continued following changes in the US tariff landscape.

India's trade deal with the US, set to be finalized, has been hailed as a significant milestone by Goyal, who had previously stated that the pact was effectively sealed on September 24. However, he noted that the agreement's implementation would depend on the US providing India with a competitive edge in the American market, allowing it to outcompete rivals.

Within the US market, India's primary regional competitors include China, Bangladesh and member states of ASEAN.