India's Stance on Trade Negotiations

Union commerce minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India's principle of not negotiating under pressure, following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a 90-day pause on tariff impositions, including a 26% tariff on India, excluding China. "Trade talks proceed when both sides are sensitive to each other's concerns and requirements," Goyal stated, underscoring the importance of mutual respect in trade discussions.

Trump's Tariff Announcement

Donald Trump declared a temporary reduction in reciprocal tariffs to 10% for a 90-day period, affecting over 75 countries that have engaged in trade discussions with the US without retaliation. However, China was notably exempted from this pause, with Trump increasing tariffs on China to 125% due to what he described as a lack of respect for global markets.

India's Strategic Approach

External affairs minister S Jaishankar highlighted the complexity of India's trade negotiations, noting the high expectations from the United States and the significantly changed global environment. India is actively pursuing a trade agreement with the US, announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, demonstrating a measured and strategic approach to these challenging negotiations.