Modi-Trump talks: trade and tariffs to be in focus

• Trump announced an executive order on reciprocal tariffs three hours before a meeting with Modi.

• The Trump administration has previously reinstated 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum, imposed tariffs on China, and paused tariffs on Mexico and Canada.

• India announced tariff reductions and eliminations in the Union Budget on February 1, including high-end motorcycles, textiles, and electronics.

• A senior White House official suggested an announcement about a “fair” bilateral trade agreement between India and the U.S. in 2025.

• The U.S. will prioritize India as a key importer of America’s natural resources.

• India was designated a Major Defence Partner of the U.S. in 2016, and the two sides are moving towards signing a new defense framework.

• An alleged Indian government plot to kill an India-born Khalistani separatist, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, is a priority for the Trump administration.

• The India-U.S. bilateral partnership is described as “one of the most critical” in the 21st Century.

• Prior to the talks, Modi met with key Trump allies and officials, including U.S. National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, former Republican presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy, and Elon Musk.