'Framework deal ready for India-US trade pact'

India and the US have a framework deal ready for the first tranche of a bilateral trade pact, to be signed at the right time.

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said both sides are on the same page and see no challenges, with energy imports increasing.

Minister Piyush Goyal reaffirmed commitment to a balanced, commercially meaningful agreement for businesses, farmers, workers, and consumers.

India seeks comparative advantage in tariffs over rivals like China, Asean, and Bangladesh in textiles and footwear.

The signing depends on the US announcing a new tariff structure before the uniform 10% levy expires on July 24.