India May Raise Issue of US Steel Tariffs in Trade Talks

BTA talks are in their final stage, with both sides showing flexibility, making positive progress

- Dhirendra Kumar

India may not retaliate immediately against the US over its steep tariffs on steel and aluminum, and may instead seek their removal through the ongoing talks on a bilateral trade agreement (BTA), two people familiar with the matter said.

India, in the first instance, will try to negotiate the issue between June 5, when a US delegation is expected in New Delhi for talks on the trade agreement, and June 8, the deadline for India to respond at the WTO.

However, India will reserve its right to retaliate.

A US notification to the World Trade Organization (WTO), circulated on May 23, rejected India's claim that the tariffs were safeguard measures under WTO rules. The WTO allows countries to take 'safeguard' measures to protect domestic industries from a surge in imports.