New Delhi (TDI): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke by phone with US President Donald Trump on Thursday, marking their third conversation since Washington doubled tariffs on several Indian exports to 50 per cent.
The tariffs target key products including textiles, chemicals, and seafood, and were imposed in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
Modi described the call as “warm and engaging,” noting that the leaders discussed developments in bilateral relations, as well as regional and global issues.
Trade negotiations between India and the US had collapsed in late July after New Delhi resisted opening its market to US farm goods and did not acknowledge Trump’s role in mediating a May India-Pakistan dispute.
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Despite the impasse, talks have continued, particularly as Indian refiners reportedly reduce Russian oil imports following US sanctions on companies like Rosneft and Lukoil.
This week, US Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer visited New Delhi for meetings with Indian officials as the country seeks relief from the punitive tariffs.
It remains uncertain whether a trade deal will be finalized before the end of the year, though experts see a potential resolution given India’s significance in the global economy.
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The discussion comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to New Delhi last week, during which he assured uninterrupted fuel supplies and resisted US pressure on India to curb purchases of Russian oil.
Indian exports to the US dropped nearly 9 per cent year-on-year in October, from $6.91 billion to $6.31 billion, though they remained above September’s $5.47 billion. Washington continues to urge India to lower tariffs and other trade barriers on US goods and to open its market for farm products such as soybeans and grain sorghum.
