India-US Trade Deal Nears: Piyush Goyal Signals Breakthrough Amid New Zealand FTA

• Piyush Goyal indicated advanced India-US trade pact discussions after the India-New Zealand FTA conclusion.
• Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal stated India is "very close" to an initial framework deal with the US to lower tariffs.
• Six rounds of India-US talks have been completed, covering a Bilateral Trade Agreement and an interim arrangement.
• The India-New Zealand FTA grants India 100% market access for goods and opens 118 services sectors.
• New Zealand pact includes fast-track approval for Indian pharma and mutual recognition of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Why It Matters: India is actively pursuing a trade pact with the US, while also strengthening ties with New Zealand.