The United States has canceled trade negotiations with India that were scheduled to take place in New Delhi between August 25 and 29, according to Indian media reports. The discussions, ongoing since February, have been paused, The Indian Express reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. NDTV stated that the next round of talks will now take place at a later date.
The suspension comes at a critical moment for India, which is currently subject to the highest U.S. tariffs globally. The U.S. has levied a 50% tariff on Indian goods. Indian exporters are already paying 25%, while the additional 25% will take effect on August 27.
The delay is expected to affect Indian manufacturers who had anticipated some relief before the higher tariffs are fully applied. Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump announced an extra 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing India's import of Russian oil.
So far, India and the U.S. have held five rounds of negotiations. Talks have stalled over disagreements on access to India's farm and dairy sectors and demands that India reduce imports of Russian oil.
Source: DW