U.S. Vice President JD Vance has arrived in New Delhi for a high-level visit that includes strategic discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His trip comes amid rising global trade tensions triggered by recent U.S. tariff decisions.
A key objective of Vance’s visit is to push forward a long-awaited trade pact between the United States and India. Both leaders are expected to explore ways to enhance bilateral trade and address friction stemming from Washington’s tariff measures.
Joining him on this visit are his wife, Usha Vance, and their children. The trip has a personal touch, too—Usha Vance’s family traces its roots to Andhra Pradesh in southern India. The family is also expected to tour iconic Indian cities such as Agra and Jaipur.
Soon after landing in Delhi on Monday morning, the Vice President paid a visit to the Akshardham temple. Later in the day, he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Modi for formal discussions, followed by a dinner hosted in his honor.
The timing of the visit is significant, with the U.S. nearing the end of a 90-day freeze on reciprocal tariffs, set to lapse on July 9. Countries around the world are working quickly to secure trade deals before the deadline.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders will also exchange perspectives on key regional and global matters that impact both nations.
Trade relations between the two countries have been under strain. President Trump, who has previously criticized India for what he calls unfair trade practices, implemented a 27% tariff on Indian products before pausing it temporarily in April. While India has made moves to reduce tariffs on selected American goods, its average import duty remains significantly higher—around 12%—compared to the U.S. average of 2%.
Despite efforts to rebalance trade, India still maintains a notable surplus, valued at approximately $45 billion.