US and India unveil interim trade framework, move closer to broad pact
The United States and India reached an interim framework agreement on Friday, aiming to lower tariffs, reshape energy ties, and deepen economic cooperation. The agreement reaffirms a commitment to negotiations towards a broader bilateral trade pact, with India agreeing to purchase $500 billion in US goods over five years and eliminate or reduce tariffs on various products. However, the deal will apply an 18% tariff rate on most imports from India, including textiles and apparel, and India resisted opening its agricultural market to US demands. The framework also includes provisions for cooperation on enforcement of export controls and addressing non-market policies of third parties, such as China.
16 FEB 2026
— The Hindu
The Congress party accuses Prime Minister Modi of signing an interim trade agreement that they claim undermines India's economic self-reliance and benefits American agricultural producers.
17 FEB 2026
— The Hindu
The PDP in Jammu and Kashmir called for an all-party meeting to address the potential economic hardship of the apple sector due to the impact of the India-U.S. trade deal.
— The Hindu
Kharge, Rahul, to meet Congress leaders from five States and J&K on February 20 to plan strategy against India-U.S. trade deal
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