White House Revises India-US Trade Deal Fact Sheet
The White House has quietly revised its official fact sheet on the India-US trade framework. It removed several key claims from the original version released earlier this week. The updated document no longer says that India would reduce tariffs on “certain pulses.” It also drops references to eliminating digital services taxes. In addition, it removes the claim that India committed to buying $500 billion worth of American goods. These changes have drawn strong attention from trade experts and policy analysts.
Tariff Reference on Pulses Removed
In the revised version, the White House deleted “certain pulses” from the product list. Earlier, the document had mentioned pulses along with tree nuts, soybean oil, wine, and spirits. Pulses remain politically sensitive in India. The country is the world’s largest producer and consumer of lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans. Therefore, experts believe India pushed back against this claim. The change also reflects efforts to protect farmers and ensure food security.
Digital Services Tax Language Softened
The updated fact sheet also changes the wording on digital services taxes. Earlier, it stated that India “will remove” these taxes. Now, it says India has “committed to negotiate” digital trade rules. This wording matches current policy. India had already removed its 6% equalisation levy on digital advertising. The change took effect on April 1, 2025, under the Finance Bill 2025. As a result, officials say the earlier version overstated India’s commitments.
Purchase Commitments Reframed
In another major revision, the White House softened language on India’s purchases of US goods. The document now says India “intends to buy” American products. Earlier, it said India had “committed to buy” them. This wording matches the joint statement issued on February 7. The revised sheet also removes the word “agricultural” from the list. Experts say these changes show that talks remain ongoing. They also highlight the complex nature of India-US trade negotiations.
