India Denies Reports of US Trade Talks Delay

New Delhi, India – The Indian government firmly rejected reports on Friday suggesting that it plans to delay or suspend negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement with the United States, emphasizing that discussions remain active and aimed at mutual benefits.

Government sources described the claims as "incorrect and misleading," clarifying that there has been no pause in bilateral engagement. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued a statement noting a recent media report on the trade talks and denying any hold-off. "It is reiterated that the two sides remain engaged for a mutually beneficial trade agreement," the ministry said.

The clarification followed a report citing unnamed sources that India might postpone finalizing the deal by several months. This comes amid a new U.S. investigation into alleged unfair trade practices by multiple countries, including India. On Wednesday, United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced probes under Section 301(b) of the Trade Act of 1974 against 16 economies, such as China, the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and India. The inquiries focus on acts, policies, and practices related to structural excess...