Trump Hints at Major US-India Trade Deal, Confirms China Agreement

On June 26, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that his administration had finalized a trade agreement with China and hinted at an upcoming major deal with India. Speaking at an event celebrating his “Big Beautiful Bill,” Trump claimed that the China agreement marked a breakthrough and suggested India would be next in line. “We just signed with China yesterday. We’re having some great deals. One might be with India — a very big one,” Trump said.

Trump’s remarks come despite reports from Reuters suggesting that U.S.-India trade talks had stalled. The disagreements included Washington’s push for New Delhi to lower import tariffs on agricultural products like soybeans and corn, as well as cars and alcoholic beverages. India was also being asked to relax non-tariff barriers, which officials reportedly found difficult to accept.

Trump emphasized that his administration was being selective with trade deals. “Some countries we’ll just send a letter, tell them to pay 25 to 45 percent tariffs. That’s easier, but my team prefers real deals,” he said.

Meanwhile, the White House confirmed a separate understanding with China that would ease restrictions on rare earth mineral exports, crucial to U.S. industries. A framework was agreed upon to implement the Geneva agreement and smoothen supply chain disruptions. These minerals are essential in sectors such as defense, technology, and automotive.

A senior official stated that the China deal would benefit U.S. exporters and help restart Chinese shipments in return for fewer American export curbs. The understanding was forged amid growing concerns about China’s dominance in rare earth supply and its weaponization of export controls. Trump’s statement suggests ongoing geopolitical and economic maneuvering as he continues to tout tough trade stances while pushing for strategic economic realignments.