New Delhi (Economy India): Indian exporters have urged authorities in India and the United States to continue direct, face-to-face negotiations to resolve outstanding trade issues and work towards a mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement.
Exporters said that ongoing tariff disputes are already impacting bilateral trade flows and warned that any further escalation could significantly hurt India’s exports to the US.
Concerns Over High US Tariffs
According to exporters, the 50% tariff imposed by the US on certain Indian goods has begun to affect export competitiveness, especially in price-sensitive sectors.
They cautioned that if these tariffs are increased further, it could lead to:
- Reduced export volumes
- Loss of market share in the US
- Pressure on small and medium exporters
- Higher compliance and logistics costs
“The current tariff levels are already hurting trade. Any further hike would have serious consequences for Indian exports to the US,” exporter representatives said.
Call for Constructive Dialogue
Industry bodies emphasised the need for constructive engagement rather than unilateral actions, noting that sustained dialogue is essential to resolve differences related to tariffs, market access, and trade practices.
Exporters said that a negotiated settlement would help:
- Restore certainty for businesses on both sides
- Strengthen supply chains
- Improve investor confidence
- Deepen economic cooperation between India and the US
Trade Deal Seen as Key to Stability
India and the US have been engaged in discussions on a broader trade agreement, aimed at addressing long-standing issues such as tariff barriers, regulatory standards, and market access.
Exporters believe that a comprehensive agreement could help reduce trade friction and create a stable framework for long-term cooperation between the two economies.
Impact on Bilateral Trade
The US remains one of India’s largest export destinations, with key shipments including:
- Engineering goods
- Pharmaceuticals
- Textiles and apparel
- Gems and jewellery
- IT-enabled services
Exporters warned that prolonged tariff disputes could weaken India’s position in the US market at a time when global trade conditions are already challenging.
With trade talks ongoing, exporters expressed hope that both governments would prioritise dialogue and avoid measures that could disrupt trade relations. They stressed that resolving tariff-related issues through negotiation would benefit industries and consumers in both countries.
(Economy India)
