India–US Trade Deal Finalised: Ambassador Sergio Gor Credited for Breakthrough in 21 Days

India–US Trade Deal: India and the United States have finalised a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement, bringing major relief to Indian exports. After nearly 10 months of uncertainty over tariffs, US President Donald Trump announced a sharp reduction in tariffs imposed on Indian goods, lowering them from 50% to 18%. Following the announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described President Trump as his “dear friend,” underlining the renewed warmth in bilateral ties.

The successful conclusion of the trade deal is widely being attributed to the crucial role played by Sergio Gor, the United States Ambassador to India. Since assuming office on January 12, 2026, Ambassador Gor accelerated negotiations, helping both sides bridge differences and reach consensus within just 21 days.

The tariff dispute began in April last year when the US imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, followed by an additional 25% penalty over allegations related to India’s purchase of Russian oil amid the Ukraine conflict. This resulted in a cumulative 50% tariff burden on Indian exports. However, improved diplomatic engagement, India’s parallel trade understandings with the European Union, and renewed dialogue with Washington paved the way for tariff relief.

Ambassador Gor, a close confidant of President Trump and former Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, played a key diplomatic role. Soon after taking charge, he publicly indicated that talks between India and the US were progressing positively, with multiple rounds of negotiations already completed. He repeatedly emphasised that India is one of America’s most important strategic partners.

Gor described the India–US relationship as one of the most significant global partnerships of this era, extending beyond trade to cooperation in defence, technology, energy and education. He also highlighted the personal trust between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi as a driving force behind the swift progress of the deal.

With tariffs now reduced to 18%, trade tensions between the two nations have eased considerably, opening the door for smoother economic cooperation and strengthening the overall strategic partnership between India and the United States.