The US-India Business Council (USIBC) President, Atul Keshap, described the India-US trade deal announced by President Donald Trump as a significant development that could reshape economic ties between the two countries. The agreement involves a substantial reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods entering the country, with India reciprocating by lowering its tariffs.
Keshap highlighted that the deal not only sends a positive psychological signal but also benefits businesses and investors on both sides. The sentiment among the US business community following the trade deal announcement has been notably positive. Negotiations for the deal, which began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the White House in February 2025, lasted nearly a year.
According to Keshap, the trade deal signifies a strong commitment from both the United States and India to enhance their economic, strategic, and technological ties. He emphasized that the agreement would pave the way for progress in various other aspects of the US-India relationship. The deal is expected to create fresh momentum for businesses, encouraging increased investment and engagement between the two countries.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Washington for meetings with senior US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, coincided with the trade deal discussions. Keshap underscored the importance of focusing on critical minerals, essential for future energy needs, the digital economy, and advanced technologies. He also emphasized the need to advance defense co-production and co-development initiatives.
