Subhechcha Ganguly 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet President Donald Trump during his two-day visit to the United States on February 12-13, with trade issues taking center stage. India is preparing to implement additional tariff cuts in an effort to boost American exports and avoid a trade war similar to the ongoing tensions between the US and China. These tariff concessions will cover a range of sectors, including electronics, medical equipment, and certain chemicals. The adjustments will target products India typically imports from the US, such as dish antennas and wood pulp, and align with India’s domestic production goals. The move signals India’s desire to create a more balanced trade relationship with the US.
In anticipation of the meeting, unnamed Indian officials noted that both leaders aim to avoid escalating trade conflicts, with President Trump previously criticizing India as a “very big abuser” of trade. Trump’s remarks emphasized the need for India to purchase more US-made security equipment as part of a fairer trade agreement. While the broader discussions will include defense cooperation and technology, in-depth negotiations on tariffs will occur after the meeting. The talks reflect India’s strategy to engage with the US on trade matters while maintaining economic and strategic partnerships.
