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New Delhi: The Government of India informed on Friday, April 24 that the three-day talks on the first phase of Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with America have been positive. Both countries have agreed to continue the talks and maintain the momentum.

positive and constructive discussion

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued a statement saying that the meetings held in Washington DC were held in a good atmosphere. Both sides discussed many important issues in detail. These included areas such as market access, non-tariff measures, technical barriers to trade, customs duties, trade facilitation, investment promotion, economic security and digital trade. According to the government, the meetings were constructive and meaningful progress was made on key issues. Both countries have expressed their commitment to maintain this momentum.

Phase One Interim Agreement

India and America had issued a joint statement on 7 February 2026. In this, a framework for an interim trade agreement with mutual benefits was prepared. Under this framework, America had agreed to reduce the tariffs imposed on India to a great extent.

There was also talk of removing or reducing the additional tariff imposed on Russian oil purchases. However, due to a decision of the US Supreme Court and new tariff rules, there were some changes in the situation, after which the talks gained momentum again.

Modi-Trump start

Negotiations for a comprehensive bilateral trade agreement were formally initiated by US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 February 2025. From the discussion between the two leaders, a roadmap was prepared to promote trade between the two countries. The Indian delegation recently went to Washington and held face-to-face meetings with American officials.

The purpose of these meetings was to finalize the remaining points of the interim agreement and move towards a comprehensive BTA. The government says that this agreement will be balanced and beneficial for both the countries. This will increase trade, open new investment opportunities and strengthen the supply chain.