A new turn
It will be naive to take Donald Trump’s assurance of a resumption of trade negotiations for granted. Here is an American President whose mood swings guide his presidential decisions. India cannot bluntly refuse the offer but it may have to deal with America with heightened caution. Even if one assumes that Mr. Trump is genuine in his idea to resume trade negotiations, his aides in his cabinet may be smart. The recently-imposed high tariffs on Indian goods should be withdrawn as a precondition for the resumption of talks. If Mr. Trump refuses to do so, there is no point in fresh negotiations. Looking at the issue from this angle, here is a great chance for India to regain lost ground (Front page, “Trump, Modi, signal trade negotiations may resume”, September 11).
V. Lakshmanan,
Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu
Published – September 12, 2025 12:24 am IST