Wed Mar 05 16:21:54 UTC 2025: ## India Remains Silent as US Imposes Reciprocal Tariffs
**Washington D.C./New Delhi –** Despite ongoing bilateral trade negotiations, India has yet to respond to the United States’ announcement of reciprocal tariffs. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is currently in Washington for talks on the first phase of a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), aimed at boosting bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. These talks follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s February visit, where a commitment to “fair-trade terms” was made.
However, President Donald Trump’s decision to proceed with tariffs against India, effective April 2nd, has dampened some optimism within the Indian government. Unlike China, Mexico, and Canada, which have already announced retaliatory measures, India has remained silent, prompting speculation about the impact on the ongoing BTA negotiations. While officials suggest room for negotiation remains, the lack of immediate response contrasts sharply with the proactive stances of other affected nations. Brazil, although not yet responding, has openly defied Trump’s tariff threats.
Mr. Goyal’s meetings in Washington are now under intense scrutiny. Both sides are reportedly exploring areas for tariff reduction, building on India’s recent preemptive cuts on certain US goods. The success of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of US-India trade relations in the face of Trump’s protectionist measures. The previously optimistic outlook, fueled by the February agreement, is now clouded by uncertainty.
First Piper 