US-India Trade Breakthrough Possible Ahead of Tariff Deadline: Trump Signals Optimism

With the July 9 tariff hike deadline fast approaching, US President Donald Trump has signaled a possible breakthrough in trade negotiations with India, expressing confidence that a mutually beneficial agreement could soon be reached.

Speaking aboard Air Force One on Tuesday, President Trump suggested that India may be ready to ease its trade barriers, potentially paving the way for a major trade deal. "Right now, India doesn’t accept anybody in. I think India is going to do that. If they do that, we’re going to have a deal for less, much less tariffs,” Trump said.

The remarks come ahead of the expiration of a 90-day suspension on planned US tariff increases, first announced on April 2. If a deal is not finalized by July 9, India could be hit with steep retaliatory tariffs, with rates jumping from the current 10% to as high as 27%.

Meanwhile, talks between Indian and American trade negotiators have entered a critical phase. In a sign of urgency, Indian officials have extended their stay in Washington through Monday, aiming to iron out remaining differences and secure a last-minute deal. According to Reuters, both sides are engaged in intensive discussions to overcome key sticking points.

While Trump appeared upbeat about progress with India, he cast doubts over a potential agreement with Japan, accusing Tokyo of maintaining unfair trade practices.

The coming days will be crucial for India-US trade ties, as negotiators race against time to avert a sharp escalation in tariffs and strike a deal that could reshape market access and bilateral economic engagement.