Commerce Ministry Reviews India-US Trade With Exporters

The Commerce Ministry reviewed India-US trade performance with exporters and industry bodies, focusing on tariffs, market access and sector-wise challenges. The inputs will support ongoing BTA negotiations and efforts to strengthen Indian export competitiveness.

The Commerce Ministry held discussions with exporters and industry representatives on September 1 to review India-US trade performance, sector-wise export trends and challenges faced by Indian businesses in accessing the US market. The consultation comes as negotiations on the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) continue.

The meeting was chaired by Additional Secretary Darpan Jain, who is also India’s chief negotiator for the trade agreement. Representatives from export promotion councils and industry bodies shared feedback on recent trade developments, tariff conditions and market-access issues affecting Indian exporters.

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The discussions assume significance amid changing US tariff policies and growing competition from other Asian exporters. Indian businesses have raised concerns over tariffs, non-tariff barriers, regulatory requirements and competitiveness, particularly in sectors dependent on the US market.

India-US trade remains substantial. During 2025-26, India’s exports to the US stood at $87.31 billion, while imports reached $53.45 billion, resulting in total bilateral trade of $140.76 billion and a trade surplus of about $33.9 billion. Between April and July 2026, India’s exports to the US increased to $34.5 billion, while imports reached $22.12 billion.

The government is expected to use industry feedback to identify areas where exporters need stronger policy support and improved market access. The consultation also provides inputs for India’s ongoing negotiations, where New Delhi is seeking a more predictable and competitive trade environment for Indian businesses.

The discussions come ahead of Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s planned US visit later in September for the G20 Trade Ministerial and bilateral engagements. The United States holds the G20 presidency in 2026.

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The review also follows recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce, which has called for an early conclusion of the India-US trade agreement while protecting India’s interests and addressing tariff and non-tariff market-access barriers.

A stronger trade framework could improve market access, support Indian exporters and strengthen supply chain cooperation across manufacturing sector, pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering and technology.