India Tightens Trade Diplomacy: Reciprocal Demands Drive Negotiations With UK and US

UK Deal Under Fresh Strain

A senior Indian trade official has indicated New Delhi may revisit the tariff cuts it had offered the UK on sensitive items like Scotch if London’s steel safeguards hurt Indian exporters. The message is that trade concessions must be reciprocal, with India unwilling to leave its own manufacturers exposed while importing high value British goods on easier terms.

US Talks And Section 301 Concerns

On the US front, India plans to push for an exemption from any adverse findings under Washington’s Section 301 probe during upcoming meetings. Policymakers are keen to avoid fresh tariff battles that could hit Indian exports to the US and complicate broader strategic ties, especially in services, technology and critical supply chains.

Chasing A Competitive Edge

Officials have also flagged that India would prefer a trade understanding with the US that offers a clear competitive edge over peer economies. That could mean better access for Indian goods and services, more predictable rules for digital trade and investment, and fewer sudden tariff shocks compared to rival export hubs in Asia.

Trade Strategy Highlights

• India may scale back UK tariff concessions on items like Scotch if steel safeguards stay
• UK trade minister expected in India on Tuesday to iron out free trade deal issues
• New Delhi to seek exemption from US Section 301 probe in upcoming meetings
• India wants a US deal that gives it advantages over competing emerging markets

Sources: DD News, CETA, Times Of India, New Indian Express, Economic Times, India Today