Possible mini-U.S.-India pact, likely symbolic

• Industry leaders predict a possible mini trade deal between India and the U.S. before July 9.

• The deal is seen as a symbolic one, focusing on “low-hanging fruits.”

• Atul Keshap, former Ambassador and president of U.S.-India Business Council, sees the mini trade deal as the first step towards achieving the ‘Mission 500’ target of $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

• The agreement would reaffirm the steadfast partnership between the two governments and show commitment to trade as a tool for economic progress and new commercial opportunities.

• Key sticking points include potential disagreements over trade policy and enabling private sectors to deliver on the promise of free enterprise and entrepreneurship.

• Kami Viswanathan, president of Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa (MEISA), FedEx, hopes for a mini deal by the expected time.

• Kumar Deep, Country Director-India, Information Technology Industry Council, expressed hope for a formal trade announcement by July 9.

• Shashi Shekhar Vempati, ex-CEO, Prasar Bharati, sees the extension as a logical extension to deepen ties across technology, supply chain, and other areas.