U.S. Vice President JD Vance began a four-day visit to India on Monday, aiming to strengthen diplomatic and trade relations as both countries work toward a potential trade deal. Vance is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss reducing tariffs and expanding defense cooperation, amid a 90-day pause on U.S. tariff hikes for major trade partners.
The visit, which is also personal in nature, includes stops at the Taj Mahal and a wedding in Jaipur. Vance’s wife, Usha, is of Indian descent, adding personal significance to the trip. Vance landed in New Delhi after meeting Pope Francis in Rome on Easter Sunday.
Talks will revisit the February agenda between Modi and President Donald Trump, focusing on fairer trade practices and defense ties. India is reportedly open to cutting tariffs on over half of its $41.8 billion in U.S. imports from 2024. However, Trump has repeatedly labeled India a "tariff king," calling for more balanced trade.
In 2024, U.S.-India bilateral trade hit $129 billion, with a $45.7 billion surplus favoring India. Officials in New Delhi hope Vance’s visit will pave the way for a swift agreement before the tariff pause ends.
While no official deals are expected during this visit, discussions are underway for a broader defense partnership. India plans to procure and co-produce U.S. military equipment, including Javelin anti-tank missiles and Stryker combat vehicles. These negotiations are expected to advance during an upcoming visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Foreign policy expert Harsh Pant emphasized the timing of Vance’s trip, noting its importance amid rising U.S.-China tensions and Vance’s growing role in American diplomacy. The visit is also seen as a precursor to Trump’s expected participation in the Quad summit in India later this year.