Wed Jul 16 14:29:04 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article written from an Indian perspective:
**Summary:**
The United States and India are in ongoing negotiations for an interim trade deal. President Trump has indicated that the deal is progressing well and could soon be finalized, potentially granting American companies greater access to the Indian market, similar to a deal made with Indonesia. India is approaching the deal cautiously, prioritizing its national interest and avoiding any rush based on deadlines. While the U.S. has sent letters detailing reciprocal tariff rates set to take effect on August 1st, India hopes to strike a deal beforehand to avoid these tariffs. India is also seeking the removal of additional tariffs imposed by the U.S. on various sectors and has hardened its stance on giving duty concessions, particularly on dairy products.
**News Article:**
**India Stands Firm as U.S. Trade Deal Talks Show Promise**
**New Delhi, July 16, 2025:** Negotiations between India and the United States for a much-anticipated interim trade deal appear to be progressing, although India maintains a firm stance on its key priorities. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism that the deal could be sealed soon, suggesting it would offer American companies greater access to the Indian market.
However, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has reiterated that India will not be rushed into any agreement, emphasizing that any deal must be thoroughly finalized and serve the national interest. “India will enter into an trade agreement based on deadlines and will accept the proposed trade deal with the U.S. only when it is fully finalised, properly concluded and in the national interest,” he said earlier this month.
The U.S. has already shared details of reciprocal tariff rates that could take effect on August 1st, prompting India to seek a mutually beneficial agreement to avoid these tariffs. While keen to resolve trade imbalances, India is resisting U.S. demands for duty concessions, especially in the sensitive agricultural and dairy sectors. India has also emphasized its intent to have tariffs on sectors such as steel and aluminum and the auto industry eased.
An Indian Commerce Ministry team is currently in Washington for further discussions. The outcome of these talks will be crucial in determining whether a deal can be struck that safeguards Indian interests while fostering stronger economic ties with the United States.
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