India and US Discuss Trade Ties in Recent Talks

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor in New Delhi on February 26, 2026, to discuss ways to strengthen trade relations between the two nations. Goyal described the discussions as 'fruitful' and focused on expanding the economic partnership.

The meeting occurred shortly after negotiators postponed an Indian delegation's trip to Washington, originally planned for February 23-25, aimed at finalising an interim trade agreement. This decision followed a ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court, which struck down certain legislative measures used by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on partner countries, including India.

In a post on the social media platform X, Piyush Goyal noted, 'Hosted US Secretary of Commerce @HowardLutnick & @USAmbIndia Sergio Gor. Engaged in very fruitful discussions to expand our trade and economic partnership.' At the same time, Ambassador Gor expressed on the platform that their lunch meeting was highly productive, citing numerous opportunities for cooperation between India and the United States.

Currently, the two countries have only announced a joint statement indicating they have established a framework for an interim agreement that is expected to be signed in mid-March and implemented by early April. In light of the Supreme Court's ruling, the Indian government has acknowledged the decision and is evaluating its implications but has not indicated any intent to reconsider the interim agreement.

Following the Supreme Court’s decision, Lutnick remarked in an interview that he has been assuring U.S. trade partners that tariffs would be maintained regardless of the court's outcome. He emphasised: 'So, we’re having active conversations with them. We want them to understand that these deals are going to be good deals. We expect to stand by them.' As Goyal and Lutnick continue discussions on enhancing trade ties, the outcome of their talks may have significant implications for the future of U.S.-India trade relations.