Trump Optimistic About Trade Deal with India, Criticizes Allies Japan and South Korea

US President Donald Trump stated that Washington is close to finalizing a trade deal with India while imposing tariff threats on more than a dozen countries, excluding New Delhi. Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with India and claimed to have prevented a conflict between India and Pakistan by threatening to restrict access to US markets. Despite no official confirmation linking the truce to tariff threats, Trump frequently highlights this as an example of using trade for American influence.

On Monday, Trump issued tariff warnings to 14 countries, urging them to negotiate bilateral deals before August 1. India is among the countries facing this deadline, although the situation may change given Trump's unpredictable approach to international relations. India has been engaged in trade discussions for months and has committed to purchasing American goods to reduce the trade deficit while safeguarding its agriculture sector.

Although the negotiation window is narrowing, India shows no signs of backing down, even as Trump imposes tariffs on allies like Japan and South Korea. Trump's letters to various leaders, including those with small trade surpluses, emphasized the threat to US national security posed by these imbalances. Despite initial expectations of numerous trade deals, Trump's administration has only secured a few agreements, with most countries receiving warnings of tariff increases if deals are not reached by August 1.