India working to resolve trade issues with US, says Jaishankar
What's the story
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that India is working to resolve its trade issues with the United States. He said that the inability to reach a common ground on several issues has led to the imposition of tariffs on Indian exports. Speaking at the Kautilya Economic Conclave (KEC 2025), Jaishankar said, "We have issues with the United States today, mainly that we haven't yet reached a landing ground in our trade discussions."
Tariff concerns
'Red lines have to be respected'
Jaishankar also pointed out that the tariffs imposed on India are "unfair." He said that New Delhi is negotiating against 50% tariffs levied on Indian goods. The minister stressed that India's "red lines have to be respected" in these negotiations. Despite the challenges posed by these tariffs, he expressed hope they wouldn't affect all aspects of trade between India and the US.
Trade dynamics
Tariffs reshaping global trade
Jaishankar also spoke about how tariffs are reshaping global trade. He said that with tariffs becoming a central consideration, comparative and competitive advantages are being redefined. The minister said that while some issues need to be negotiated, most of the India-US relationship remains "business as usual or more."
Trade agreements
Need for India to focus on FTAs with non-competitive economies
Jaishankar also stressed the need for India to focus on free trade agreements (FTAs) with non-competitive economies. He said that existing FTAs with Asian economies have been challenging due to their competitiveness and supply chain nature providing a pathway for China. The minister said that India's challenge is to build manufacturing capabilities, adding that the country needs an optimal mix of advanced and orthodox manufacturing.