India says 45% of exports to U.S. spared new Trump tariffs after trade talks

India has secured a notable trade outcome as 45% of its exports to the United States are now exempt from the latest round of additional tariffs. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry confirmed this adjustment following recent negotiations with Washington.

This exemption covers key sectors, including generic medicines, smartphones, steel, aluminum, and various auto parts. These goods will avoid the 10% levy that was announced by the Trump administration last week. For Indian exporters, this provides a measure of stability while they navigate an period of trade uncertainty.

While the remaining 55% of exports remain subject to the 10% duty, the Indian government noted that their tariff rates remain competitive compared to those applied to other global economies. Officials in New Delhi are continuing to meet with U.S. representatives to advance a broader bilateral trade agreement.

These talks gain significance as the pharmaceutical sector, a major contributor to India's U.S. trade volume, faced concerns regarding potential new levies. India has actively contested suggestions that its trade practices lack sufficient labor safeguards, maintaining that no evidence supports such claims.

As global trade barriers shift, this development marks a specific point of success for Indian economic policy. The focus now turns to the next stages of dialogue as both nations work toward long-term trade frameworks.