India sends first trade team to US after tariff ruling, says it stands by deal despite changed circumstances

India has dispatched its first trade delegation to the United States following the Supreme Court ruling that struck down tariffs imposed during the Donald Trump administration, with negotiations scheduled from April 20 to 22 as both sides seek to advance a proposed bilateral trade agreement (BTA).According to the Commerce Ministry, the delegation will be led by Chief negotiator Darpan Jain, along with the Deputy Chief negotiator and track leads, who are set to discuss the larger BTA framework between the two countries.Officials said several developments have unfolded since the joint statement issued in February. “Many developments have taken place after joint statement in February: the US SC order, followed by 10% tariffs, followed by 2 probes by the USTR,” the ministry noted, highlighting a more complex negotiating environment.Despite the evolving situation, India has maintained its commitment to the proposed deal. “Circumstances have changed, we stand by the deal, Team is going with an open mind,” the ministry said.The current round of talks is expected to focus on legal aspects of the agreement. “Looking at finalising the legal agreement, which is a logical follow-up of the joint statement released on 7th February,” officials added.Trade frictions are also on the agenda, with Washington having initiated investigations into certain Indian trade practices. “The US has initiated trade investigations against India, issue needs to be resolved bilaterally,” the ministry said, underlining the need for dialogue.Both sides are expected to deliberate on how to address these concerns. “Both sides will sit together and discuss how these issues need to be structured and addressed,” the statement said.The talks are also likely to chart the way forward. “India and the US will work together to finalise timelines and next steps as part of the ongoing engagement,” the ministry added.The negotiations come at a time when both countries are seeking to deepen economic ties while navigating emerging trade challenges.

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