India is actively engaging with the United States over proposed tariffs under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, while simultaneously continuing discussions aimed at finalising a bilateral trade framework agreement, the government said on Wednesday.
According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has concluded investigations involving 60 economies, including India, concerning measures adopted by these countries to regulate or restrict imports of goods. Following the investigations, the USTR has proposed imposing additional tariffs on imports from the affected economies under Section 301.
The proposed measures, however, are not yet final. The USTR has invited stakeholders to participate in the consultation process, with requests to appear at public hearings open until June 22. Written submissions can be made until July 6, while public hearings are scheduled for July 7. The USTR will review the comments and testimony received before taking a final decision on the tariff proposals.
The Ministry noted that products already covered under Section 232 tariffs, along with certain other categories, have been excluded from the proposed Section 301 tariff measures. Additionally, the US has proposed a special mechanism for textile and apparel products that could allow a specified volume of imports from selected economies to enter the American market at lower tariff rates.
India has been participating in the ongoing Section 301 proceedings and remains in dialogue with US authorities on the issue.
At the same time, New Delhi and Washington are continuing negotiations to finalise a broader trade framework agreement. The discussions are being held in line with the understanding reached during high-level bilateral engagements earlier this year, including the announcement made on February 2, 2026, and the joint statement issued on February 7, 2026.
The Ministry said India remains committed to constructive engagement with the United States on both the proposed tariff measures and the broader trade partnership, reflecting the growing economic ties between the two countries.
