India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded on Wednesday to the United States' implementation of 26% tariffs on Indian exports, a move announced by U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this month. The Indian government stated it is carefully examining the implications of the new tariffs while affirming its commitment to concluding a comprehensive trade agreement with the U.S. as soon as possible.

During the weekly media briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed questions regarding the steep reciprocal tariffs that came into effect on April 9. “On the 3rd, we had a detailed press release issued by the Ministry of Commerce where India's position was made clear. We are studying the implications of the tariffs that have been announced,” Jaiswal said.

He added that negotiations between Indian and U.S. trade representatives are ongoing. “Discussions are ongoing between India and US trade teams for an expeditious conclusion of a mutually beneficial multi-sectoral bilateral trade agreement. India values its comprehensive global strategic partnership with the U.S. and is committed to working closely with it... Both teams are in discussion and hopefully we can close it.”

India Aims to Finalize Trade Pact by Autumn 2025

Jaiswal expressed optimism that the agreement could be finalised by the fall of this year. He highlighted that both sides had reaffirmed this target during the joint statement issued after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met President Trump in Washington, D.C.

The newly imposed tariffs are part of a broader U.S. trade strategy. On April 2, President Trump unveiled what he described as “discounted” reciprocal tariffs on several major trade partners, including India. According to the tariff list released by the White House, India now faces a uniform 26% duty on all goods exported to the United States.

Despite the significant increase in tariffs, India has opted not to respond with retaliatory measures for now. According to a Reuters report, the Indian government is choosing to remain engaged in talks rather than escalate trade tensions, as both countries continue working toward a long-term solution.

Jaishankar Confirms Diplomatic Engagement with Trump Administration

In a separate statement earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also addressed the tariff issue during his appearance at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit in New Delhi. He confirmed that India is maintaining dialogue with Washington to address the matter. “India's strategy to combat reciprocal tariffs is to engage with the Trump administration and discuss terms with the Americans,” Jaishankar said.

The Indian government has reiterated that it sees the U.S. as a key strategic and trade partner, and that it remains committed to resolving differences through dialogue and negotiation.

As trade discussions continue, all eyes are now on whether both nations can reach an agreement that will mitigate the effects of the tariffs and strengthen their economic ties in the coming months.