India-US trade talks reach a plateau as differences remain over agreement

India-US trade negotiations have reached a plateau, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday, indicating that differences between the two sides remain unresolved despite continued discussions.

Sitharaman said both countries have held extensive negotiations and that the scope for additional concessions has become limited. She nevertheless indicated that discussions could continue if both sides identify areas where further movement is possible.

The negotiations are aimed at expanding market access and addressing trade-related concerns between India and the United States. Talks have been continuing since February 2025.

Trade relations have become more complicated following changes in US tariff policy and Washington’s concerns about India’s purchases of Russian oil.

India remains a major buyer of Russian crude, and US measures targeting countries that purchase significant volumes of Russian oil have added another layer to the ongoing economic discussions.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has also indicated that an immediate agreement is not expected, according to the latest reports.

India has been seeking greater market access for its exports while also examining the implications of tariff measures for domestic industries and consumers. The United States, meanwhile, has been seeking changes aimed at addressing its trade deficit with India.

Sitharaman said the negotiations should continue through engagement rather than relying solely on tariff measures. India has also maintained that trade negotiations need to take into account the interests of both economies.

The United States is India’s largest export destination, making the outcome of the negotiations important for Indian exporters across several sectors.

The two governments are expected to continue discussions through their trade negotiating teams. Whether the current plateau can be overcome will depend on the ability of both sides to bridge remaining differences on tariffs, market access and other economic issues.

For now, the negotiations remain open, but officials on both sides have indicated that reaching an agreement will require further movement on unresolved issues.