Washington (Commerce Desk): US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick stated that the failure of the trade deal with India was primarily due to stubbornness on the part of Indian leadership and lack of seriousness in negotiations.
According to Lutnick, progress could not be made during talks because there was no direct contact between President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that Modi appeared under pressure and hesitant, avoiding direct phone calls.
Reports indicate that the US has instead successfully concluded trade agreements with Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, which experts consider a major diplomatic setback for India.
Indian media highlighted that President Trump had previously criticized India’s economy, describing it as weak. Economic analysts have warned that potential US tariffs of up to 500% could severely impact India’s economy.
Analysts also noted that failed diplomacy and ineffective foreign policy are directly affecting the Indian public, raising concerns of rising inflation, unemployment, and increased trade pressure.
