U.S. Cancels Trade Delegation to India, Delays Negotiations Indefinitely Amid Tariff Tensions

Kokcha News Agency: The United States has called off a scheduled trade delegation visit to New Delhi, which was set to take place from August 24–28, according to Indian news outlet NDTV. The cancellation has effectively postponed bilateral trade negotiations, dimming hopes for an agreement before Washington’s newly announced tariffs on Indian goods come into effect.

NDTV, citing informed sources, reported that the talks have now been delayed indefinitely. Reuters noted that it has not yet independently confirmed the cancellation.

Tensions between the two countries escalated last month after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on Indian imports, a move seen as a response to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The new tariffs, which will take effect on August 27, could raise duties on some Indian goods to as high as 50 percent—among the highest imposed on U.S. trade partners.

Trade discussions between Washington and New Delhi had already stalled after five rounds of talks, primarily due to disputes over agricultural and dairy market access, as well as India’s energy ties with Russia.

In response to the tariffs, India’s foreign ministry argued that the country has been unfairly singled out for its Russian oil imports, while the U.S. and European Union continue to trade with Moscow.