Is the 'big, beautiful' India-US trade deal in trouble?

Published: 7/1/2025
Is the 'big, beautiful' India-US trade deal in trouble?
With the July 9 deadline looming for a potential India-US trade deal, negotiations remain intense with key sticking points involving agricultural access, tariffs on Indian steel, and auto components. Despite optimistic signals, challenges persist, especially regarding India's protection of its agriculture sector and non-tariff barriers like Quality Control Orders (QCOs). US concerns regarding these rules and India's push for self-reliance indicate a narrowing window for a comprehensive trade agreement. The next week will be crucial in determining whether both countries can reach a deal or opt for a limited "mini-deal" and possibly walk away from the negotiating table.