US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that Washington and New Delhi will soon finalise a trade agreement, while also highlighting his personal rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking on Thursday, Trump said the trade relationship between the two countries had undergone a significant shift.
Trump signals optimism on trade talks
“For years, India took advantage of the United States,” Trump said. “They charged us tremendous tariffs and paid nothing. Now it is the exact reverse and we are making a lot of money with India.”
Despite his criticism of past trade practices, Trump struck a positive note about ongoing negotiations.
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“But we will get to a deal because I like your Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) a lot. He is a good friend of mine, and we get along well. We have a good relationship,” Trump said.
His remarks come as India and the US continue discussions on a proposed bilateral trade agreement. A four-day visit by officials from the United States Trade Representative (USTR) from June 1 to June 4 helped advance negotiations, according to a government statement.
Officials from both countries discussed issues including market access, customs procedures, non-tariff barriers, trade facilitation measures and economic security cooperation.
#WATCH | President Donald Trump says, "For years, India took advantage of the United States... They charged us tremendous tariffs and paid nothing... Now it is the exact reverse and we are making a lot of money with India. But we will get to a deal because I like your Prime… pic.twitter.com/IR2x2MqUV5
— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2026
US flags India over forced labour concerns
The renewed talks also come against the backdrop of Washington's concerns over imports linked to forced labour. The US recently identified 60 economies, including India, for failing to adequately prevent the import of goods allegedly produced through forced labour.
"The failure of our most important trading partners to address the importation of goods made with forced labor is unacceptable. This creates a dynamic where American workers are forced to compete globally on an unlevel playing field," US trade representative ambassador Jamieson Greer said.
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Russian oil waiver in focus
Trade discussions are also taking place as the US reviews a waiver that allows countries, including India, to purchase Russian oil.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Congress that the exemption was intended to be temporary and that Washington would like to phase it out. The waiver, introduced in March and extended twice, is currently set to expire on June 17, with any further extension to be decided by the US Treasury Department.
Russian oil imports have remained a point of discussion between New Delhi and Washington amid broader trade negotiations.
