Why the August 25 Meeting is Crucial for US-India Trade Deal
US President Donald Trump confirms that the trade deal with India is not yet finalised, raising stakes for the upcoming August 25 meeting.
Usindia TradeTariffsDonald TrumpTrade NegotiationsBilateral TradeReal EstateJul 30, 2025
Asked whether 20%-25% was a potential tariff rate for India, Trump told reporters, “I think so.” Despite the tension, Trump noted that India and its Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, are his friends. “India has been... they're my friends, and he's my friend,” he said. However, Trump also emphasized that New Delhi has been charging a lot compared to other countries, stating, “You just can't do that.”
A US delegation is scheduled to visit India on August 25 for the next round of negotiations on the proposed bilateral trade agreement. This meeting holds significant importance as both nations aim to reach mutually acceptable terms for sealing a trade deal. Although the visit is set for late August, both sides remain actively engaged in talks to resolve key differences and secure an interim deal before August 1 — the date when the suspension of US tariffs, including a 26% levy on Indian goods, is set to expire.
The fifth round of trade discussions concluded in Washington last week. On April 2, US President Donald Trump announced steep reciprocal tariffs. While the higher duties were initially suspended for 90 days until July 9, the suspension was later extended to August 1 amid ongoing trade negotiations with multiple countries, including India.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told CNBC that negotiations with India would take more time, emphasizing that President Trump prioritizes “good deals, not fast ones.” Greer noted that while India has traditionally adopted a protectionist stance, it is now showing “strong interest in opening portions of its market.”
Meanwhile, Union Minister Piyush Goyal recently told Reuters that talks with the US were making “fantastic” progress. According to Indian officials, New Delhi has proposed tariff cuts across a broad range of goods and is working to address non-tariff barriers. However, agriculture and dairy remain off the table. India has refused to allow US imports of genetically modified soybeans or corn and continues to protect its dairy sector from foreign access.
Bilateral goods trade between the two nations totaled approximately $129 billion in 2024, with India recording a trade surplus of nearly $46 billion. The upcoming August 25 meeting will be crucial in determining the future of this significant economic relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the US-India trade deal?
The trade deal between the US and India is not yet finalised. US President Donald Trump has confirmed this, and both countries are working to reach mutually acceptable terms by the August 1 deadline.
What are the potential tariff rates for India?
President Trump has mentioned that India may face a higher tariff of 20-25%, although this is not yet confirmed.
When is the next round of trade negotiations scheduled?
A US delegation is scheduled to visit India on August 25 for the next round of negotiations on the proposed bilateral trade agreement.
What sectors are off the table in the US-India trade negotiations?
Agriculture and dairy are off the table. India has refused to allow US imports of genetically modified soybeans or corn and continues to protect its dairy sector from foreign access.
What is the current trade volume between the US and India?
Bilateral goods trade between the US and India totaled approximately $129 billion in 2024, with India recording a trade surplus of nearly $46 billion.
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