India Prepares for Tricky Trade Dance with Trump

Easier access likely for more American goods, but no unilateral tariff cuts

- Dhirendra Kumar & Rhik Kundu

NEW DELHI: The Indian government is preparing a new blueprint to address key issues in imports of American apples, oil, electric vehicles, satellite communications, among others, as it gears up for trade talks with the U.S. These discussions aim to strengthen ties with the world's most powerful country, now guided by the 'America First' policy espoused by its new president Donald Trump.

Three officials aware of discussions in the central government said on condition of anonymity that while India will make no unilateral offer of trade and tariff concessions, it will engage with Washington to ease market access to U.S. products in the country.

India will also seek assurances that the U.S. will not raise taxes or impose additional trade barriers against Indian products, these officials said.