08/11/2026

US Midterm Elections Impact India-US Trade Deal Negotiations

Following the US midterm elections, the Republican Party's loss may influence the ongoing trade negotiations with India. Experts suggest that President Trump's weakened position could lead to accelerated discussions, although US trade policy is expected to remain largely restrictive. The proposed trade agreement aims to reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%. However, negotiations face challenges, including a Section 301 investigation into industrial capacity and potential tariffs linked to India's Russian oil purchases. In 2025, bilateral trade between India and the US reached $149.42 billion, with India exporting $103.82 billion worth of goods to the US. The outcome of these negotiations is crucial, as higher tariffs could adversely affect Indian businesses and the economy.

Published 1 day ago • 06 Nov 2026, 03:20 PM IST

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