India pushes US for tariff shield, end to forced-labour probe in mid-July interim deal
New Delhi is seeking preferential rates and protection from future US tariff hikes as USTR Section 301 probes threaten 10-12.5% additional duties on Indian textiles citing forced labour and excess capacity. Apparel exporters face material downside if deal slips past mid-July target.
India seeks preferential tariffs and protection from future US hikes in interim trade deal, pending USTR Section 301 probes citing forced labour and excess capacity in textiles. Additional 10-12.5% tariffs proposed; deal targeted by mid-July, impacting Indian apparel exporters.
Why this matters
India-US trade negotiations have intensified as Section 301 probes pressure Indian textile exporters, with the mid-July interim deal seen as critical to averting punitive duties on apparel shipments.
Retail-brand signals steady at 1,262 over 90 days, reflecting sustained sourcing and tariff activity.