Trump claims India offered 'zero tariff' deal on US goods in trade talks

US President Donald Trump has claimed that India has offered to eliminate tariffs on American goods as part of ongoing trade negotiations between the two countries. Speaking at a business roundtable in Doha during his three-nation Middle East visit, Trump said, “It’s very hard to sell into India and they've offered us a deal with what basically they’re willing to literally charge us no tariff.” No official response or confirmation has been issued by the Indian government regarding this statement.

This claim comes in the backdrop of reciprocal tariffs announced by the United States. Trump earlier imposed a 26% tariff on Indian goods, as part of broader trade actions. In response, India notified the World Trade Organisation of its intention to suspend trade concessions granted to the US. India’s proposed action includes imposing retaliatory import duties on certain US products, although the specific items have not been disclosed yet.

In 2019, India had taken a similar step by levying retaliatory tariffs on 28 American goods, including almonds, apples, and chemicals, in response to US tariffs on Indian steel and aluminium. The Global Trade Research Initiative stated that unless the US withdraws the imposed tariffs or initiates consultations with India, the retaliatory duties could take effect in early June, which may affect US exports.

Trump also stated during the event that he had asked Apple CEO Tim Cook not to expand operations in India. “I said I don’t want you building in India,” Trump said, adding that Apple would be increasing its manufacturing in the United States. This comes as Apple has been actively expanding its production footprint globally, including in India.

Additionally, Trump linked recent ceasefire efforts between India and Pakistan to ongoing trade talks. He claimed the US played a key role in pushing both countries towards a ceasefire by leveraging trade discussions. “I said, come on, we’re going to do a lot of trade with you guys, let’s stop it,” he said. However, Indian sources familiar with recent bilateral talks have denied any discussion of trade during conversations related to the Indo-Pak ceasefire. India maintains that such matters were handled solely at the level of military officials.