Trump says India trade deal close, may exclude unresolved sectors

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday his administration is "pretty close" to a trade deal with India, describing it as "much different" from other agreements. The pact may exclude unresolved sectors where the two sides could not reach an understanding. Trump's comments followed Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement that the countries are "as close as you can be without having an executed agreement." Commerce minister Piyush Goyal had said last week the deal was nearly finalised, pending legal vetting, with implementation awaiting clarity on India's competitive advantage. Indian exports to the US currently face 10% additional tariffs under Section 301, with similar duties imposed on over 50 countries. Officials expect clearer outcomes after US mid-term elections in November, while India seeks easier access for textiles, footwear, and engineering goods.