In a recent interview with Fox News, US President Donald Trump announced that India has agreed to slash 100% of its tariffs on American goods, signaling that a long-awaited trade agreement between the two nations could soon be finalized. Trump emphasized the challenges faced by American businesses in penetrating the Indian market due to high import duties. “They make it almost impossible to do business. But do you know they’re willing to cut 100 per cent of their tariffs for the United States?” he said, projecting confidence that the deal is moving in the right direction.

Despite the optimism, Trump clarified that he was not rushing into any agreement. “I’m in no rush. Everybody wants to make a deal with us,” he remarked, noting that negotiations were simultaneously underway with over 150 countries, including India and South Korea. Trump’s assertion comes amid increased efforts by the US administration to balance global trade relationships and secure better market access for American products.

Responding to Trump’s remarks, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar cautioned that trade deals are complex and require mutual understanding. Speaking at an event in New Delhi, he said, “These are complex negotiations. Nothing is decided until everything is decided. Any trade has to be mutually beneficial.” Meanwhile, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is in Washington to discuss tariff reductions and market access with US counterparts. India is seeking relief on duties for exports like textiles, gems, and agricultural goods, while the US is pushing for reduced tariffs on items such as wine, electric vehicles, and farm produce.