U.S. Trade Representative Brendan Lynch to Visit India for Key Trade Talks
A U.S. trade delegation led by Brendan Lynch will visit India from March 25-29 for discussions related to trade amidst concerns of reciprocal tariffs. The visit underscores the commitment to a balanced trade relationship, with goals to reach $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030 and establish a legal framework to address key trade issues.
The United States Trade Representative’s team, led by Brendan Lynch, is scheduled to arrive in India on March 25 and remain until March 29 for crucial trade discussions. This visit occurs just before the April 2 deadline set by President Donald Trump for implementing reciprocal tariffs, which has heightened concerns of a potential trade war globally, including in India.
The U.S. Embassy spokesperson emphasized that the officials’ visit signifies the United States’ commitment to fostering a balanced and productive trade relationship with India. “We value our ongoing engagement with the government of India on trade and investment matters and look forward to continuing these discussions in a constructive, equitable, and forward-looking manner,” the spokesperson stated.
Amidst ongoing tensions, India’s external affairs ministry confirmed that negotiations are actively taking place to establish a framework addressing key issues like tariffs and market access. It has been noted that the fundamental differences between the two nations have been largely reconciled, supported by a previous agreement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump for a preliminary trade deal by fall 2025.
This agreement is viewed as a stepping stone toward the ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. Both countries aim to lower tariff and non-tariff barriers mutual to their interests, but they also prefer that this arrangement remain exclusive to the two nations. Consequently, establishing a legal framework is essential to avoid extending Most Favored Nation (MFN) treatment to all World Trade Organization (WTO) members.
The upcoming discussions between the U.S. trade representative’s team and Indian officials reflect a significant step towards enhancing the bilateral trade relationship. With a focus on resolving key trade issues and aiming for a $500 billion trade target by 2030, both nations are working to finalize a legal framework that ensures mutual benefits without extending concessions to other WTO members. The outcome of these discussions could mitigate concerns over potential tariffs and strengthen economic ties.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
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