New Delhi, June 17 -- The Indian government is hopeful of finalising an interim trade deal with the United States by July 9, 2025.

This agreement is being seen as a key step before both countries work on a broader trade deal expected to be concluded by the fall.

Talks between the two countries are progressing steadily, with recent meetings held in New Delhi. Both sides are working to settle issues related to tariffs, market access, and non-tariff barriers.

India has shown willingness to reduce import duties on select US goods, such as almonds and walnuts, and is open to matching US base tariff rates on some products.

However, India has firmly ruled out opening up its dairy and agricultural markets, citing the need to protect small far...