US may cut India’s tariff rate to 15-16% in a new trade deal: report

Trade Deal Overview - The United States and India are close to finalizing a trade deal that could reduce the current 50% tariff on Indian exports to 15-16% [1][2] - The potential announcement of this agreement is expected during the ASEAN summit in Malaysia from October 26 to 28 [2] Negotiation Dynamics - Intense negotiations have been ongoing, influenced by public pressure from the White House regarding India's purchases of Russian oil [2][4] - A significant quid pro quo is proposed, where India may agree to reduce its Russian oil imports in exchange for tariff relief [3][4] Impact on Oil Imports - India's Russian oil imports have become a major point of contention, with these imports constituting about one-third of India's overall oil supplies [6] - Although India has not officially confirmed plans to cut Russian oil imports, there are indications from state-owned refiners and Reliance Industries Ltd. shifting towards Middle Eastern supplies [5][6] Progress in Negotiations - Trade negotiators from both countries reported solid progress in discussions, aiming to resolve the ongoing tariff issues [7]