A delegation of U.S. officials is set to visit India from March 25 to March 29 for trade discussions, a spokesperson from the U.S. embassy confirmed on Monday. The delegation will be led by Brendan Lynch, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia.
“This visit reflects the United States’ continued commitment to advancing a productive and balanced trade relationship with India,” the spokesperson stated.
The visit comes amid growing concerns among Indian exporters as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to impose reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries starting April 2. India is hopeful that it may secure an exemption from these tariffs as negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement continue, according to a government source.
The source also indicated that U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance is likely to visit India in April as part of ongoing diplomatic and trade engagements.
Meanwhile, several Indian industry groups have urged the government to be cautious in lowering tariffs on industrial products under U.S. pressure. They warn that reduced tariffs could lead to an influx of lower-cost Chinese goods, potentially harming domestic manufacturers through dumping.
Earlier this month, Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal spent nearly a week in the U.S. to discuss trade issues. The two nations had also agreed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. last month to work on the first phase of a trade agreement by autumn 2025. Both countries have set an ambitious target of reaching $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s external affairs ministry, recently confirmed that discussions are ongoing to resolve tariff-related matters and establish a framework for a trade pact.
The U.S. embassy reiterated its commitment to strengthening economic ties with India. “We value our ongoing engagement with the Government of India on trade and investment matters and look forward to continuing these discussions in a constructive, equitable, and forward-looking manner,” the spokesperson added.
As both sides continue negotiations, the outcomes of these talks could have significant implications for future trade relations between India and the U.S.
