India dodges 26% tariffs of Trump as US authorities are the heads of Delhi for the final-lap trade deal negotiations.

New Delhi: A high -level American trade delegation in India is expected in the coming weeks as to what could be the final round of negotiations on the proposed interim trade agreement between the two countries, many sources said, PTI said.The journey comes with a tick watch, the target to seal the deal before 9 July with both sides, when a temporary suspension comes out on the US tariff.India is working hard for full exemption from 26% mutual tariffs imposed on April 2, currently suspended for 90 days. But even when the countdown continues, Indian exports are facing 10% baseline tariffs, and are eager to raise New Delhi as well.“The American team is expected in India for business talks. An official said that the conversation is going on at a fast pace.What has been done so far?India’s chief negotiator Rajesh Aggarwal, Special Secretary in the Department of Commerce, returned from a four -day visit to Washington last week. There, he interacted directly with his American counterpart on the inclusion of the interim deal.Meanwhile, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal was also in Washington. What is being seen as a diplomat eligible, he met US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik twice during his stay, which was otherwise a business-thunder week.So is there a hold-up?Under the current US law, any step is required to be approved by the US Congress to reduce the tariff under the MFN (most preferred nation) levels. However, the US administration can unilaterally remove mutual tariffs, something that is on the table not only for India but also for other countries.why it mattersIt is not just about lifting the levy on mangoes and motorcycles. With bilateral trade at $ 131.84 billion in 2024–25, the US has been India’s top trading partner for four years directly. The US is now 18% of India’s exports, 6.2% of its imports and more than 10% of its total trade.Sticking point? The goods trade surplus of $ 41.18 billion in favor of India was more than $ 35.32 billion last year. Washington is not thrilled. But Delhi is shocked, the tariff is focusing instead of getting relief before the July Cliff.The two sides have already agreed to finalize stages 1 of the broad bilateral trade deal by a fall (September -October). Two business partners look at more than USD 500 billion by 2030.