USIBC linked deeper reciprocal trade with investment, manufacturing and emerging technologies. Screengrab: ANI
USIBC calls for faster progress on India-US trade agreement
The US-India Business Council says a trade agreement could lower barriers, improve business certainty and deepen cooperation
The US-India Business Council (USIBC) has called on the governments of the United States and India to intensify negotiations and conclude a bilateral trade agreement before the end of 2026, arguing that a deal could provide greater certainty for businesses and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
Ambassador (ret.) Atul Keshap, president of USIBC, said the two countries had reached “truly historic milestones” over the past two decades and described the completion of a reciprocal trade agreement as a potential landmark in the bilateral economic relationship.
“We call on both governments to use this opportunity to conclude an agreement that lowers trade barriers, and minimizes tariffs,” Keshap said in a statement.
USIBC pushes for trade deal by 2026-end
According to Keshap, an agreement would consolidate progress made during 2026 and provide businesses with greater certainty in one of the world's most consequential economic and strategic partnerships.
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USIBC also linked deeper reciprocal trade with investment, manufacturing and emerging technologies. Keshap said greater market access could support manufacturing, expand consumer markets and strengthen cooperation between the two countries in artificial intelligence.
Businesses seek greater trade predictability
The comments come as businesses on both sides continue to seek greater predictability in trade and investment relations. Tariffs, market-access restrictions and regulatory barriers remain important issues in negotiations between Washington and New Delhi, with businesses closely watching the outcome for its potential impact on supply chains, investment decisions and market access.
Keshap said USIBC members remained committed to strengthening the bilateral commercial relationship and would work with both governments to accelerate cooperation.
Final terms depend on government talks
The call from the business community underscores the importance companies attach to a stable and predictable US-India trade framework. However, the timing and terms of any final agreement will depend on the outcome of government-to-government negotiations.
