New Delhi, 21 May (H.S.): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that a United States delegation may visit India next month for bilateral trade agreement (BTA) negotiations.

His remarks come at a time when discussions between India and the US are ongoing to further strengthen trade relations. An Indian delegation had earlier held face-to-face meetings with its US counterparts in Washington DC in April.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Annual Leadership Summit in New Delhi, Goyal said that the US trade team is planning a visit to India, although the chief US trade negotiator is unlikely to be part of the delegation. “I think he is not coming with them, but the team is scheduled to visit India next month,” he said.

On questions regarding the widening current account deficit (CAD) amid rupee volatility, the Union Minister said the government is closely monitoring the situation and is considering multiple measures. “We are keeping a close watch. All departments are working as a team. Several measures are under consideration. The global situation is challenging, but we are confident of navigating through it successfully,” he said.

Goyal expressed confidence in India’s economic outlook, stating that the country has strong capabilities and a bright future ahead. He also referred to the Prime Minister’s recent successful foreign visit, during which he reportedly received three international honours.

What is Current Account Deficit (CAD)

A CAD occurs when, over a given period, the total value of imports of goods and services and other payments exceeds the total value of exports of goods and services and other receipts. According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data released on March 2, India’s CAD widened to USD 13.2 billion (1.3% of GDP) in October–December, compared to USD 11.3 billion in the same period of the previous year, mainly due to a higher trade deficit driven by lower exports to the United States.

During April–December 2025, however, the CAD narrowed to USD 30.1 billion (1% of GDP), compared to USD 36.6 billion (1.3% of GDP) in the corresponding period of the previous year.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar