JD Vance in India: Trade Talks Begin Amid Protests and Tariff Hike Tensions

NDC DESK

US Vice President JD Vance arrived in New Delhi on April 21, 2025, for a four-day visit aimed at fast-tracking a bilateral trade agreement. Accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance and their three children, the visit marks a blend of diplomatic engagement and cultural exploration.

This visit comes against the backdrop of heightened trade tensions, notably the imposition of 26% tariffs on Indian goods by President Donald Trump’s administration on April 2. While a 90-day pause is in place, Indian exporters, especially in textiles, electronics, and pharma, remain on edge.

The Vice President will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials. These meetings stresses the significance both nations place on strengthening their strategic partnership and resolving trade disputes amicably.
Cultural visits to Jaipur and Agra are also part of the itinerary.

Protests erupted near Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, led by farmer unions and trade bodies opposing recent US tariff hikes. Many carried placards reading “Don’t trade away our soil” and demanded that Indian negotiators reject agricultural concessions in any deal with Washington.
The farmers’ concerns stem from the possibility of increased access for US dairy and meat products, which could challenge domestic producers. The All India Kisan Sabha has warned of wider mobilizations if agriculture is compromised in the talks.

Key issues on the table include and is not limited to tariff rollback, digital tax concerns, H1B visa relaxations emphasising greater access for Indian professionals and IT services under any revised trade pact, pharma pricing, agri-market access, and data localization.
India is expected to seek relief on tariffs and push for professional mobility, while cautiously guarding farm and digital sectors.

Despite tensions, both sides are hoping to announce a framework agreement by autumn.