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Feb 20, 2026 6:20 PM - Connect Newsroom - Jasmine Singh

India, U.S. Likely to Sign Interim Trade Deal in March, Says Piyush Goyal

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The minister shared the update on Friday, indicating that negotiations have entered a final legal stage. (Photo: Facebook/Piyush Goyal)

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal says an interim trade agreement between India and the United States could be signed as early as March, with implementation expected in April. The minister shared the update on Friday, indicating that negotiations have entered a final legal stage.

According to Goyal, officials from both countries are scheduled to meet in the United States starting February 23 for three days of discussions aimed at finalizing the legal framework of the proposed agreement. The interim deal is expected to address tariff issues and market access while broader trade talks continue.

Separately, U.S. Ambassador Sergio Gor said U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to visit India in the coming months, a move seen as reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

Goyal also noted progress on other trade negotiations. India’s free trade agreements with the United Kingdom and Oman are anticipated to come into effect in April, while a proposed agreement with New Zealand could be finalized by September. Trade analysts say these agreements reflect India’s broader strategy to expand export markets and strengthen global supply chain partnerships.

India and the United States have been working to deepen economic cooperation amid shifting global trade dynamics, with both sides seeking greater investment flows and reduced trade barriers.

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