US Trade Advisor Peter Navarro Criticises India's Trade Policies Ahead Of Key Negotiations With US

Updated: Monday, September 15, 2025, 20:05 [IST]

White House trade advisor Peter Navarro has once again criticised India's trade policies. His comments come just before Brendan Lynch, the American chief negotiator, is set to visit India. Navarro accused Indian refiners of collaborating with Russian counterparts after the invasion, claiming they profit unfairly from the US and use that money to buy Russian oil, which in turn funds weapons.

US Tariffs and Trade Talks

The US imposed significant tariffs on Indian products as a penalty for India's purchase of Russian oil. Initially scheduled for late August, a US team visit was postponed due to these tensions. The tariffs included a 25% increase in early August and an additional 25% by the end of the month. These measures are part of a broader global trade reset by the US.

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White House trade advisor Peter Navarro criticized India's trade policies ahead of U.S. chief negotiator Brendan Lynch's visit, as the U.S. imposed tariffs on Indian products, causing a drop in Indian exports to the U.S., and negotiations for an interim trade deal face delays amid disagreements on market access, with talks between Brendan Lynch and Rajesh Agrawal planned for September 15.

Negotiations Between India and the US

Since March-April, India and the US have been engaged in negotiations for an interim trade deal. The talks have faced delays, leading to what some describe as "punitive" tariffs from the US side. One major sticking point is the US demand for access to India's agricultural and dairy markets, which Prime Minister Modi has vowed to protect.

Impact on Trade Figures

India's exports to the US dropped from $8.01 billion in July to $6.86 billion in August. The full effect of higher tariffs will be clearer next month since additional tariffs were implemented at the end of August. Despite these challenges, both sides aim to fast-track discussions with hopes of reaching an initial agreement by October-November.

Assistant US Trade Representative Brendan Lynch is expected to meet with India's chief negotiator Rajesh Agrawal during his one-day visit on September 15. Agrawal confirmed their intention to expedite talks but did not provide further details. The original goal was to finalise a pact by September; however, this timeline has now shifted.

Navarro's remarks highlight ongoing tensions between India and the US over trade practices and tariffs. As negotiations continue, both countries are working towards resolving their differences while protecting their respective economic interests.