By Rootsalert Global Desk| February-06-2026
After Talks with Secretary Rubio, EAM Confirms Final Detailing Underway; Tariffs Drop to 18% Boosting Exports and Jobs
Big developments are brewing in India-US relations! External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar just wrapped up a super productive visit to Washington DC, where he sat down with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The big takeaway? The much-talked-about “historic” India-US trade deal is in its final stages—detailing work is almost done and expected to wrap up very soon.
This comes hot on the heels of that phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump earlier this week. Trump announced the US is slashing tariffs on Indian goods from a punishing 50% (which included an extra 25% hit tied to India’s Russian oil purchases) down to 18%. Jaishankar called it a game-changer that will kickstart a fresh chapter in ties, unlocking huge opportunities for both sides.
In his social media update, Jaishankar described the trip as “productive and positive,” adding that the deal brings “vast possibilities” for the partnership. He also highlighted rapid progress on critical minerals cooperation—think supply chain resilience, clean energy, and strategic resources. More talks on defence, energy, and other key issues are lined up soon, signaling real momentum after months of ups and downs.
Tensions had ramped up over tariffs, energy sourcing (especially Russian crude), immigration policies, and some other friction points. But this breakthrough is resetting the tone. India’s MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stressed that energy security for 1.4 billion people is priority number one. India will keep diversifying sources smartly based on markets and global realities—open to options from the US, Venezuela (with whom ties go back years), or anywhere else that makes commercial sense.
The confirmed 18% tariff rate is already a win for Made in India exports, especially labour-intensive sectors like textiles, pharma, and manufacturing. It should pump up job creation, economic growth, and overall prosperity. While full deal specifics (beyond tariffs) are still being finalized—no official signing date yet—the vibe is positive and forward-looking.
This could be the turning point that deepens economic and strategic bonds between the world’s largest democracies. Exciting times ahead—watch this space!
