Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is preparing a series of tariff reductions aimed at boosting American exports and averting potential trade tensions with the United States, government officials revealed on Monday. The move comes ahead of Modi’s scheduled two-day visit to Washington, where he will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The visit, set to begin on Wednesday, coincides with Trump’s broader trade policy shifts, including planned reciprocal tariffs on several nations. The U.S. president has proposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, affecting key trading partners, including India.
Trump has previously criticized India’s trade policies, calling the country a “very big abuser” and urging New Delhi to increase its purchases of American-made security equipment. In response, Indian officials say the government is considering tariff reductions across multiple sectors, including electronics, medical and surgical equipment, and chemicals, aligning with its domestic production objectives.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, officials confirmed that these measures are designed to enhance bilateral trade and align with India’s economic strategy. However, India’s trade and foreign ministries, along with the Prime Minister’s Office, have yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
Over the past decade, U.S.-India trade relations have grown steadily, with Washington increasingly viewing New Delhi as a strategic counterweight to China’s expanding regional influence.
In a statement on Monday, Modi emphasized the significance of his visit, stating, “This visit will be an opportunity to build upon the successes of our collaboration in his (Trump’s) first term.” He highlighted technology, trade, defense, energy, and supply chain resilience as key areas for strengthening the partnership.
With both leaders seeking to solidify economic and strategic ties, Modi’s tariff cuts could serve as a crucial step in easing trade frictions and reinforcing a mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations.
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