India could finalise a provisional trade agreement with the Donald Trump administration within 90 days, according to senior Indian government officials. This potential breakthrough hinges on both countries presenting mutually beneficial offers. If successful, India may sidestep the harsher effects of Washington’s aggressive tariff policies that have rattled global markets, according to a Bloomberg report.
An Indian official speaking on condition of anonymity revealed that the broad framework of the agreement might be ready before the end of President Trump’s three-month suspension on additional tariffs. Talks are currently addressing both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. This progress comes after India and the US expressed intent to finalise a deal during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s February visit to the White House.
Despite these intentions, Trump imposed 26 per cent reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods starting April 2. However, a 90-day reprieve was later announced, providing a window for negotiations.
Earlier, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told that India is among several countries now expressing willingness to lower tariffs in response to sweeping United States trade measures.
India avoids retaliation, gains ‘first-mover’ advantage
Unlike other major economies that have responded to US tariffs with retaliatory measures, India has chosen a more measured approach. Officials believe this restraint has granted India a “first-mover” advantage in the region, particularly as it is already engaged in substantive trade talks with Washington.
Urgent trade negotiations
Virtual negotiations are ongoing, with plans for in-person meetings in the near future. US Vice President JD Vance is expected to visit India on April 21 for further discussions. India’s foreign minister also emphasised on Friday that the country is pursuing the trade deal with unprecedented urgency.