India most essential partner for US as trade talks resume, says ambassador-designate
The United States considers India its most essential international partner, US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor said on Monday, as Washington and New Delhi prepare to restart a new round of trade negotiations beginning Tuesday, January 12. Speaking at the US Embassy in New Delhi, Gor underlined the depth of the bilateral relationship and expressed confidence that both sides could overcome existing challenges to advance cooperation across multiple sectors. Gor, who also serves as Spec
India most essential partner for US as trade talks resume, says ambassador-designate
The United States considers India its most essential international partner, US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor said on Monday, as Washington and New Delhi prepare to restart a new round of trade negotiations beginning Tuesday, January 12. Speaking at the US Embassy in New Delhi, Gor underlined the depth of the bilateral relationship and expressed confidence that both sides could overcome existing challenges to advance cooperation across multiple sectors. Gor, who also serves as Spec
Supreme Court delays ruling on Trump-era tariffs, leaving markets in limbo
The Supreme Court did not issue a decision Friday on the legality of broad tariffs imposed during President Donald Trump’s administration, extending uncertainty for financial markets and trade policy observers who have been closely watching the case for its potential economic and fiscal implications. Expectations had grown that the ruling might be released before the end of the week, but the court issued only a single opinion on Friday, unrelated to tariffs or trade authority. The
Supreme Court delays ruling on Trump-era tariffs, leaving markets in limbo
The Supreme Court did not issue a decision Friday on the legality of broad tariffs imposed during President Donald Trump’s administration, extending uncertainty for financial markets and trade policy observers who have been closely watching the case for its potential economic and fiscal implications. Expectations had grown that the ruling might be released before the end of the week, but the court issued only a single opinion on Friday, unrelated to tariffs or trade authority. The
US commerce secretary says Modi did not call Trump, trade deal collapsed
The proposed India–US trade deal failed to materialise because Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not personally call US President Donald Trump, according to claims made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Speaking on a podcast, Lutnick said the final step required to close the agreement was direct communication between the two leaders, which did not happen, leading to the collapse of the negotiations. Lutnick stated that the framework of the deal had been completed and was rea
US commerce secretary says Modi did not call Trump, trade deal collapsed
The proposed India–US trade deal failed to materialise because Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not personally call US President Donald Trump, according to claims made by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Speaking on a podcast, Lutnick said the final step required to close the agreement was direct communication between the two leaders, which did not happen, leading to the collapse of the negotiations. Lutnick stated that the framework of the deal had been completed and was rea
Trump claims India cut Russian oil imports after US imposed 50% tariffs
US President Donald Trump on Sunday, January 4, claimed that India has significantly reduced its purchases of Russian oil following the imposition of steep tariffs on Indian goods by Washington. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said his administration’s decision to levy a 50 percent tariff had prompted a response from New Delhi, while also warning that the United States could escalate trade penalties further if necessary. Trump asserted that India’s leadership acted in respo
Trump claims India cut Russian oil imports after US imposed 50% tariffs
US President Donald Trump on Sunday, January 4, claimed that India has significantly reduced its purchases of Russian oil following the imposition of steep tariffs on Indian goods by Washington. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said his administration’s decision to levy a 50 percent tariff had prompted a response from New Delhi, while also warning that the United States could escalate trade penalties further if necessary. Trump asserted that India’s leadership acted in respo
India Trade Deal Sparks Political Rift In New Zealand Government
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has publicly criticised the recently concluded India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, describing it as a low-quality deal that undermines New Zealand’s economic and labour interests. His remarks come just days after India and New Zealand announced the successful conclusion of FTA negotiations, which both governments claim could significantly boost bil
India Trade Deal Sparks Political Rift In New Zealand Government
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has publicly criticised the recently concluded India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, describing it as a low-quality deal that undermines New Zealand’s economic and labour interests. His remarks come just days after India and New Zealand announced the successful conclusion of FTA negotiations, which both governments claim could significantly boost bil
US pauses £31bn tech investment in UK amid trade disputes with Starmer government
The United States has paused a multi-billion-pound investment programme in British technology, dealing a significant setback to relations between Washington and London amid ongoing trade disagreements. The decision places the £31bn tech prosperity deal on hold, halting a package that had been presented by the UK government as a cornerstone of its economic and diplomatic strategy with the US. The agreement, unveiled during Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK, was described by Pri
US pauses £31bn tech investment in UK amid trade disputes with Starmer government
The United States has paused a multi-billion-pound investment programme in British technology, dealing a significant setback to relations between Washington and London amid ongoing trade disagreements. The decision places the £31bn tech prosperity deal on hold, halting a package that had been presented by the UK government as a cornerstone of its economic and diplomatic strategy with the US. The agreement, unveiled during Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK, was described by Pri
Trump signals new tariffs on Indian rice and Canadian fertiliser amid farmer concerns
US President Donald Trump indicated that his administration is prepared to examine new tariffs on a range of agricultural imports, including Canadian fertiliser and Indian rice, after American farmers raised concerns that low-priced foreign goods were eroding their competitiveness. The comments came during a roundtable discussion at the White House, where the President unveiled a $12 billion support package intended to cushion farmers from mounting price pressures and market volatility. Througho
Trump signals new tariffs on Indian rice and Canadian fertiliser amid farmer concerns
US President Donald Trump indicated that his administration is prepared to examine new tariffs on a range of agricultural imports, including Canadian fertiliser and Indian rice, after American farmers raised concerns that low-priced foreign goods were eroding their competitiveness. The comments came during a roundtable discussion at the White House, where the President unveiled a $12 billion support package intended to cushion farmers from mounting price pressures and market volatility. Througho
Taliban Hits Back At Pakistan: We Have Right To Maintain Ties With India, Says Muttaqi
Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has strongly defended the Taliban government's right to maintain political and economic relations with India, pushing back against Pakistan’s criticism over Kabul-Delhi engagement. Speaking at a conference in Kabul, Muttaqi dismissed Islamabad's accusations that India supports anti-Pakistan groups, calling them inconsistent and politically motivated. He reminded that Pakistan itself maintains diplomatic presence in New Delhi with act
Taliban Hits Back At Pakistan: We Have Right To Maintain Ties With India, Says Muttaqi
Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has strongly defended the Taliban government's right to maintain political and economic relations with India, pushing back against Pakistan’s criticism over Kabul-Delhi engagement. Speaking at a conference in Kabul, Muttaqi dismissed Islamabad's accusations that India supports anti-Pakistan groups, calling them inconsistent and politically motivated. He reminded that Pakistan itself maintains diplomatic presence in New Delhi with act
Putin In Delhi Today: BrahMos, S-500 Defence Talks And Big Trade Deals On The Table
Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Delhi this evening for a crucial two-day state visit, his first trip to India since the Ukraine war and the first since 2021. The visit comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as both nations celebrate 25 years of the India-Russia strategic partnership along with the 23rd bilateral summit. The leaders last met during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on September 1, and this visit is expected to see multiple agreements aimed at strengthening l
Putin In Delhi Today: BrahMos, S-500 Defence Talks And Big Trade Deals On The Table
Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in Delhi this evening for a crucial two-day state visit, his first trip to India since the Ukraine war and the first since 2021. The visit comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as both nations celebrate 25 years of the India-Russia strategic partnership along with the 23rd bilateral summit. The leaders last met during the SCO Summit in Tianjin on September 1, and this visit is expected to see multiple agreements aimed at strengthening l
Trump moves to ease grocery costs with food tariff exemptions
US President Donald Trump has issued an executive order removing import tariffs on a broad selection of food products in an effort to curb rising grocery costs and ease pressure on consumers. The decision marks one of the most significant adjustments to his trade policy since tariffs were introduced as a central feature of his economic agenda. The order comes at a moment when Americans have voiced growing frustration over inflation, particularly food prices, following last we
Trump moves to ease grocery costs with food tariff exemptions
US President Donald Trump has issued an executive order removing import tariffs on a broad selection of food products in an effort to curb rising grocery costs and ease pressure on consumers. The decision marks one of the most significant adjustments to his trade policy since tariffs were introduced as a central feature of his economic agenda. The order comes at a moment when Americans have voiced growing frustration over inflation, particularly food prices, following last we
Modi’s Bihar victory boosts prospects for India–US trade deal on farm concessions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party is positioned to advance crucial trade negotiations with the United States after securing a decisive electoral victory in Bihar, a development that analysts say could provide New Delhi with the political space needed to offer farm-related concessions long sought by Washington. The National Democratic Alliance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, appeared headed for an overwhelming win as early trends from the Election Commission showed the coalition leadi
Modi’s Bihar victory boosts prospects for India–US trade deal on farm concessions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party is positioned to advance crucial trade negotiations with the United States after securing a decisive electoral victory in Bihar, a development that analysts say could provide New Delhi with the political space needed to offer farm-related concessions long sought by Washington. The National Democratic Alliance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, appeared headed for an overwhelming win as early trends from the Election Commission showed the coalition leadi
Trump’s H-1B overhaul aims to boost US skills through temporary foreign expertise
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has outlined the administration’s new approach to the H-1B visa programme, describing it as a targeted effort to bring in temporary foreign specialists who will train American workers rather than replace them. His remarks came during a televised interview in which he emphasised that the policy is intended to support the rebuilding of domestic manufacturing, shipbuilding capability, and semiconductor production after years of industrial decline. Bessent said the redesigned system is centred on the idea of “knowledge transfer,” where overseas experts are invited to the United States for a limited period to help restore technical capacity in critical sectors. According to him, the administration views this model as essential to equipping American workers with advanced skills that have diminished as supply chains and production moved abroad. He explained that the visa structure is meant to ensure that expertise flows into the country long enough for domestic workers to learn the required competencies before the foreign specialists return home. Addressing recurring concerns that increased reliance on foreign talent could displace American employees, Bessent maintained that the policy does not threaten domestic job opportunities. Instead, he argued that the United States currently lacks specialized talent in areas that have not been active on American soil for many years. He noted that industries such as shipbuilding and semiconductor fabrication require highly technical knowledge, which is more readily available in countries that have continued to develop those sectors. In his view, bringing in experts to train Americans is necessary for rebuilding industrial strength, not a means of outsourcing jobs. The comments followed President Donald Trump’s recent statements explaining that the country needs temporary foreign experts to accelerate the transfer of technical skills. The president said the United States does not currently have enough workers with the precision training required for advanced manufacturing, adding that it would be unrealistic to expect individuals without experience to instantly take on tasks such as missile production or microchip engineering. Both Trump and Bessent described the policy as a practical step toward reducing long-term dependence on imports by cultivating a stronger domestic workforce. Bessent also discussed broader elements of the administration’s economic agenda, including ongoing talks about a potential USD 2,000 tariff rebate for families earning less than USD 100,000 annually. He said the proposal is part of an effort to ensure that households directly benefit from trade policies designed to strengthen national competitiveness. The rebate, he added, is one component of the administration’s push to align the interests of Wall Street and Main Street, a vision he referred to as “Parallel Prosperity.” Looking ahead, the Treasury secretary predicted that 2026 could become a milestone year for the United States economy if the administration’s policy framework succeeds in restoring industrial capacity and stabilizing financial markets. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a deep and liquid Treasury market, suggesting that economic growth will depend on strong foundations that support both investment and employment. Throughout the interview, Bessent portrayed the H-1B reform as a crucial part of that broader plan, arguing that rebuilding the nation’s industrial base requires a temporary infusion of global expertise to ensure Americans can take full ownership of high-skilled jobs in the future.
Trump’s H-1B overhaul aims to boost US skills through temporary foreign expertise
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has outlined the administration’s new approach to the H-1B visa programme, describing it as a targeted effort to bring in temporary foreign specialists who will train American workers rather than replace them. His remarks came during a televised interview in which he emphasised that the policy is intended to support the rebuilding of domestic manufacturing, shipbuilding capability, and semiconductor production after years of industrial decline. Bessent said the redesigned system is centred on the idea of “knowledge transfer,” where overseas experts are invited to the United States for a limited period to help restore technical capacity in critical sectors. According to him, the administration views this model as essential to equipping American workers with advanced skills that have diminished as supply chains and production moved abroad. He explained that the visa structure is meant to ensure that expertise flows into the country long enough for domestic workers to learn the required competencies before the foreign specialists return home. Addressing recurring concerns that increased reliance on foreign talent could displace American employees, Bessent maintained that the policy does not threaten domestic job opportunities. Instead, he argued that the United States currently lacks specialized talent in areas that have not been active on American soil for many years. He noted that industries such as shipbuilding and semiconductor fabrication require highly technical knowledge, which is more readily available in countries that have continued to develop those sectors. In his view, bringing in experts to train Americans is necessary for rebuilding industrial strength, not a means of outsourcing jobs. The comments followed President Donald Trump’s recent statements explaining that the country needs temporary foreign experts to accelerate the transfer of technical skills. The president said the United States does not currently have enough workers with the precision training required for advanced manufacturing, adding that it would be unrealistic to expect individuals without experience to instantly take on tasks such as missile production or microchip engineering. Both Trump and Bessent described the policy as a practical step toward reducing long-term dependence on imports by cultivating a stronger domestic workforce. Bessent also discussed broader elements of the administration’s economic agenda, including ongoing talks about a potential USD 2,000 tariff rebate for families earning less than USD 100,000 annually. He said the proposal is part of an effort to ensure that households directly benefit from trade policies designed to strengthen national competitiveness. The rebate, he added, is one component of the administration’s push to align the interests of Wall Street and Main Street, a vision he referred to as “Parallel Prosperity.” Looking ahead, the Treasury secretary predicted that 2026 could become a milestone year for the United States economy if the administration’s policy framework succeeds in restoring industrial capacity and stabilizing financial markets. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a deep and liquid Treasury market, suggesting that economic growth will depend on strong foundations that support both investment and employment. Throughout the interview, Bessent portrayed the H-1B reform as a crucial part of that broader plan, arguing that rebuilding the nation’s industrial base requires a temporary infusion of global expertise to ensure Americans can take full ownership of high-skilled jobs in the future.
US Supreme Court questions legality of Trump’s global tariffs, India watches closely
The United States Supreme Court has signaled strong skepticism toward former President Donald Trump’s use of emergency powers to impose sweeping global tariffs, raising the possibility that one of his most controversial trade measures could soon face major curbs. The case, which centers on Trump’s invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), could redefine the limits of presidential authority in shaping US trade policy. For India, which bore the brunt of several
US Supreme Court questions legality of Trump’s global tariffs, India watches closely
The United States Supreme Court has signaled strong skepticism toward former President Donald Trump’s use of emergency powers to impose sweeping global tariffs, raising the possibility that one of his most controversial trade measures could soon face major curbs. The case, which centers on Trump’s invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), could redefine the limits of presidential authority in shaping US trade policy. For India, which bore the brunt of several
White House confirms Trump-Modi communication amid India-US trade strain
The White House has confirmed that United States President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continue to engage in regular communication, with trade officials from both countries involved in what have been described as “very serious discussions.” The statement comes amid rising diplomatic and economic tensions between the two nations following Washington’s recent decision to impose a 50 percent tariff on select Indian imports, a move that has strained one of the world
White House confirms Trump-Modi communication amid India-US trade strain
The White House has confirmed that United States President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continue to engage in regular communication, with trade officials from both countries involved in what have been described as “very serious discussions.” The statement comes amid rising diplomatic and economic tensions between the two nations following Washington’s recent decision to impose a 50 percent tariff on select Indian imports, a move that has strained one of the world
China suspends extra US tariffs for one year after Xi-Trump meeting
In a major development for global trade, China has announced that it will suspend an additional 24 percent tariff on United States goods for a period of one year, while maintaining a 10 percent levy on imports from the US. The announcement, made by the State Council Tariff Commission, signals a cautious step by Beijing toward easing long-standing trade tensions with Washington. The suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place for twelve months. The decision follows a
China suspends extra US tariffs for one year after Xi-Trump meeting
In a major development for global trade, China has announced that it will suspend an additional 24 percent tariff on United States goods for a period of one year, while maintaining a 10 percent levy on imports from the US. The announcement, made by the State Council Tariff Commission, signals a cautious step by Beijing toward easing long-standing trade tensions with Washington. The suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place for twelve months. The decision follows a
India confirms US sanctions will not impact Chabahar Port project in Iran
New Delhi: India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that the American sanctions imposed on Iran will not affect the Chabahar Port project, a critical component of India’s regional connectivity and trade strategy. The confirmation underscores New Delhi’s commitment to maintaining strategic investments in the port, even as it continues its dialogue with the United States on broader trade and diplomatic issues. The Chabahar Port, located on Iran’s southeastern c
India confirms US sanctions will not impact Chabahar Port project in Iran
New Delhi: India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that the American sanctions imposed on Iran will not affect the Chabahar Port project, a critical component of India’s regional connectivity and trade strategy. The confirmation underscores New Delhi’s commitment to maintaining strategic investments in the port, even as it continues its dialogue with the United States on broader trade and diplomatic issues. The Chabahar Port, located on Iran’s southeastern c
Trump and Xi conclude Busan meeting with signs of US-China trade thaw
The high-stakes meeting between United States President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan, South Korea, concluded after nearly one hour and forty minutes on Thursday, lasting longer than initially scheduled. The session, held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, was seen as a pivotal effort to reduce escalating tensions that have rattled global markets for months. Both leaders are believed to have sought a pathway to prevent further det
Trump and Xi conclude Busan meeting with signs of US-China trade thaw
The high-stakes meeting between United States President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Busan, South Korea, concluded after nearly one hour and forty minutes on Thursday, lasting longer than initially scheduled. The session, held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, was seen as a pivotal effort to reduce escalating tensions that have rattled global markets for months. Both leaders are believed to have sought a pathway to prevent further det
Carter’s to close 150 stores and cut 15% of workforce amid rising tariffs
WASHINGTON — Carter’s, one of the most recognizable baby and children’s clothing retailers in the United States, has announced plans to close 150 stores and reduce its workforce by 15% as rising tariffs continue to pressure company finances. The Atlanta-based company outlined its restructuring strategy in its latest earnings report released Monday, citing significant cost increases tied to ongoing trade policies. The retailer said higher tariffs have had a substantial impact o
Carter’s to close 150 stores and cut 15% of workforce amid rising tariffs
WASHINGTON — Carter’s, one of the most recognizable baby and children’s clothing retailers in the United States, has announced plans to close 150 stores and reduce its workforce by 15% as rising tariffs continue to pressure company finances. The Atlanta-based company outlined its restructuring strategy in its latest earnings report released Monday, citing significant cost increases tied to ongoing trade policies. The retailer said higher tariffs have had a substantial impact o
India-Bangladesh Tensions Push Dhaka Toward Pakistan’s Karachi Port Offer
Pakistan has offered Bangladesh the use of its Karachi port for exporting jute and other goods, marking a significant geopolitical move amid deteriorating India-Bangladesh relations. The offer comes shortly after India banned the import of jute products through land routes, a major blow to Bangladesh’s export sector. The development was formalized during the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting in Dhaka, held after a gap of nearly 20 years, signaling a thaw in relatio
India-Bangladesh Tensions Push Dhaka Toward Pakistan’s Karachi Port Offer
Pakistan has offered Bangladesh the use of its Karachi port for exporting jute and other goods, marking a significant geopolitical move amid deteriorating India-Bangladesh relations. The offer comes shortly after India banned the import of jute products through land routes, a major blow to Bangladesh’s export sector. The development was formalized during the Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting in Dhaka, held after a gap of nearly 20 years, signaling a thaw in relatio
Trump receives royal welcome in Japan, meets Emperor Naruhito and Prime Minister Takaichi
US President Donald Trump received a royal welcome in Japan on Monday, marking the beginning of a major diplomatic visit focused on strengthening relations between Washington and Tokyo. Upon his arrival in Tokyo, Trump was greeted by Japanese officials before proceeding to meet Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace. The ceremony was conducted with traditional formality, symbolizing the respect and deep ties that have defined the United States–Japan partnership for decades. Followi
Trump receives royal welcome in Japan, meets Emperor Naruhito and Prime Minister Takaichi
US President Donald Trump received a royal welcome in Japan on Monday, marking the beginning of a major diplomatic visit focused on strengthening relations between Washington and Tokyo. Upon his arrival in Tokyo, Trump was greeted by Japanese officials before proceeding to meet Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace. The ceremony was conducted with traditional formality, symbolizing the respect and deep ties that have defined the United States–Japan partnership for decades. Followi









