India-US trade ties could turn ! after presidential elections

India's trade relationship with the US stands at a crossroad as the US presidential elections draw near.

Analysts predict a challenging environment, regardless of which candidate — Kamala Harris or Donald Trump — takes office. They warn tariffs are likely to rise and a more insular Washington can hinder foreign investment and reverberate across India's economic landscape

“There’s a strong chance of reviving a limited trade deal with the US under Trump,” said Ram Singh, professor and head at the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade.

“Trump has historically aligned with India on initiatives such as the Quad and defence deals and has supported skilled-worker visas, unlike Democrats. But his aggressive approach on market access, high tariffs, and economic sanctions could pose global trade challenges, including India.”