India to Request Tariff Exemption from the US
The government of India is expected to request an exemption from President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs as US representatives arrive in the country to discuss a bilateral trade agreement.
Brendan Lynch, the US assistant trade representative for South and Central Asia, along with a group of officials, are said to be in India from March 25-29 as part of ongoing discussions regarding trade.
Officials in New Delhi are expected to advocate for relief from the reciprocal tariffs set to commence on April 2.
The two parties are anticipated to deliberate on a structure for a bilateral trade deal, following which formal negotiations are expected to begin, according to reports. In addition to trade officials, Lynch is also likely to engage with Vikram Misri, India’s foreign secretary, during his visit.
India has one of the highest average tariff levels among major economies, making it a primary target for Trump’s reciprocal duties.
The US president has regularly pointed out that India’s import taxes are detrimental to American businesses and remarked just last week that the nation would not escape being subjected to reciprocal duties.
Since Trump assumed office, Modi’s government has undertaken various measures to address the US leader's concerns regarding trade and immigration. Modi visited the White House in February, where both leaders agreed to enhance trade and aim for a bilateral agreement by November. They also discussed the possibility of India purchasing more energy and weaponry from the United States.
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India has already reduced import duties on an assortment of products, such as bourbon whiskey and high-end motorcycles, including those produced by Harley Davidson Inc. Indian officials are contemplating further reductions in tariffs on various other items, such as cars, certain agricultural products, and chemicals.