U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the United States is “close to making a deal with India”, even as his administration moves forward with new tariff increases on several key trading partners.

Speaking at a White House briefing, Trump said, “We’ve made a deal with the United Kingdom, with China — and we’re close to making a deal with India. Others we met with, we don’t think we’re going to be able to make a deal, so we just send them a letter.”

The statement came as the U.S. began sending formal notices to countries including South Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Bangladesh, outlining planned tariff hikes effective August 1. The administration has framed the move as a “recalibration” of global trade relationships intended to protect American producers.

“We’re not going to be unfair about it,” Trump said, suggesting room for negotiation if countries raise valid concerns.

The U.S.-India trade talks have gained momentum in recent months, with negotiators working on a limited trade agreement that would reduce tariffs on select goods. However, challenges remain — particularly over market access to India’s agricultural and dairy sectors, which New Delhi has largely excluded from free trade agreements due to domestic sensitivities.

India, in turn, is seeking reduced tariffs on its labour-intensive exports, such as footwear, garments, and leather goods — sectors vital to its employment landscape.

Agriculture remains politically charged in India, where it supports nearly 50% of the population, despite contributing only 16% to GDP.

The progress toward a deal comes at a critical time as global trade tensions escalate, and the Trump administration intensifies efforts to reshape international commerce on U.S. terms.