New Delhi, Mar 25 (KNN) With reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2, a delegation of US officials will be in India from March 25 to 29 to advance discussions on the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

The agreement, which both sides aim to finalise in the coming months, will initially focus on goods trade, with the first tranche expected to be signed by the end of the year.

According to a statement from the US embassy in India, Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch will lead the delegation for talks with Indian officials.

The visit follows Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s recent discussions in Washington with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

The talks come amid trade tensions as the US prepares to impose reciprocal tariffs on India and other trading partners.

Despite India’s recent reduction of tariffs on bourbon whiskey, high-capacity motorcycles, and cars, US President Donald Trump has ruled out exemptions for India.

Speaking to US-based Breitbart News, Trump stated, “India is one of the highest tariffing nations in the world. They are likely to lower tariffs, but starting April 2, we will impose the same tariffs they charge us.”

While Indian officials remain focused on finalizing the BTA and increasing bilateral trade from USD 200 billion to USD 500 billion, the topic of reciprocal tariffs has not yet been part of formal discussions.

The framework for the trade pact is expected to be finalized within the next few weeks, marking a significant step toward stronger economic ties between the two nations.

(KNN Bureau)