Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump have expressed optimism about ongoing India–US trade negotiations, describing each other as “close friends” and underlining the strategic importance of the partnership.
In a post on X, Trump said, “I am pleased to announce that India, and the United States of America, are continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers between our two nations. I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our great countries.”
Responding, Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to closer ties, writing, “India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India–US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people.”
India and the US are close friends and natural partners. I am confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership. Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward… pic.twitter.com/3K9hlJxWcl
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 10, 2025
India and the US have been negotiating to resolve long-standing disputes over tariffs, market access, and digital trade regulations. Discussions first accelerated in 2019–20 but were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent political transitions.
Key issues under consideration include tariff reductions on US agricultural and energy exports, expanded access for Indian textiles and pharmaceuticals, and new frameworks for digital trade and intellectual property rights. A “mini deal” has long been proposed as a stepping stone toward a broader free trade agreement.
Beyond economics, the trade negotiations are seen as a pillar of the wider India–US strategic partnership, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Greater cooperation in energy, defense, and technology is viewed as crucial to diversifying supply chains and counterbalancing global economic shifts.
With both leaders publicly reaffirming their commitment, analysts believe the momentum could bring the two sides closer to finalizing at least a limited agreement in the near future.