India-US trade talks: Trade relations between the United States and India have entered a tense phase, with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent describing India as “a bit recalcitrant” during ongoing negotiations. Speaking to Fox Business Network’s Kudlow on Tuesday, Bessent said several large trade agreements, including those with Switzerland and India, were still pending, but that discussions with New Delhi had been particularly challenging.
After calling India noncooperative in trade talks, Bessent expressed hope that the Trump administration could finalise its trade deals by the end of October, calling that target “aspirational” but achievable. “I think we can be, we will have agreed on substantial terms with all the substantial countries,” he added.
Trump tariff pressure on India
The remark comes just days after US President Donald Trump threatened to halt trade talks with India altogether. Responding to a question from ANI at the Oval Office last week, Trump said discussions would not resume until the dispute over tariffs was resolved. His comments followed the White House’s announcement of an Executive Order doubling tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 50 per cent.
The administration cited national security and foreign policy concerns, pointing to India’s continued imports of Russian oil. Under the new order, the additional 25 percentage points will take effect in 21 days on all Indian goods entering US ports, with exemptions for certain product categories and items already in transit.
India firm on strategic and agricultural interests
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded firmly to the latest US measures during a speech at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi. “For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it,” he said.
The Modi government has consistently maintained that its energy imports and agricultural policies are grounded in national interest and that India will not bow to external pressure on issues it considers strategic.