Trump and Modi Move Toward Long-Awaited U.S.-India Trade Agreement

U.S. President Donald Trump has praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said the United States and India are “very close” to finalizing a long-awaited trade agreement, signaling progress in negotiations aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Speaking to reporters, Trump described Modi as a friend and emphasized the strong relationship between Washington and New Delhi. He expressed optimism that negotiators were nearing the completion of a deal that has been under discussion for an extended period.

The proposed agreement is expected to address several longstanding trade issues between the world’s largest and fifth-largest economies, including tariffs, market access, digital trade, agricultural exports, and investment opportunities. Officials from both countries have been engaged in multiple rounds of negotiations in an effort to bridge remaining differences.

Trump said the potential agreement would benefit businesses and consumers in both nations while expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation. He also highlighted India’s growing importance as a strategic and economic partner for the United States.

The remarks come as Washington seeks to deepen ties with India across a range of sectors, including trade, technology, defense, and supply chain resilience. Analysts view closer U.S.-India economic cooperation as a key component of broader efforts to strengthen partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

For India, a trade deal with the United States could provide greater access to one of its largest export markets while encouraging additional foreign investment. New Delhi has also sought improved market access for Indian goods and services, alongside measures to support domestic industries.

Despite the positive tone from both sides, negotiators are still working through several complex issues. Trade experts caution that final agreements often require resolving sensitive concerns involving tariffs, regulatory standards, and sector-specific protections before formal signing can take place.

Nevertheless, Trump’s comments suggest that both governments believe significant progress has been made and that a breakthrough may be within reach. If completed, the agreement would mark one of the most consequential trade developments between the United States and India in recent years.