India and US Strengthen Trade Ties with New Facilitation Portal Launch

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has unveiled the India-US Trade Facilitation Portal during his visit to the US, aiming to enhance bilateral trade to USD 500 billion. The portal is designed to strengthen existing supply chains and foster new commercial connections. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal encouraged businesses to utilize this platform to maximize trade opportunities. Misri's visit also focuses on reviewing trade and defense relations amidst recent tensions. With bilateral trade reaching a record USD 241 billion last year, both nations are optimistic about achieving their ambitious trade goals by 2030.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 8, 2026, 23:25 IST

Strengthening Bilateral Trade Relations

Washington: On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri introduced the India-US Trade Facilitation Portal, aiming to achieve a bilateral trade goal of USD 500 billion.

During his three-day visit to the United States, Misri launched the portal at a virtual event attended by India's Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, along with various officials and trade representatives from both nations.

Misri emphasized that the portal will act as a vital link, enhancing existing supply chains while also fostering new commercial connections.

In a video message during the launch, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal encouraged exporters and businesses in both countries to leverage the portal to enhance trade.

He reiterated that the bilateral trade is on track to reach the ambitious USD 500 billion target set by both nations.

Goyal described the portal as a gateway for Indian service exporters to the US market, offering opportunities for diverse sectors, from farmers in Punjab to jewelers in Surat and software professionals in Bengaluru to pharmaceutical companies in Telangana.

Misri's visit includes discussions with senior officials to assess trade and defense relations and to address global issues, including the situation in West Asia.

This visit is crucial as both countries aim to stabilize their relationship following a period of tension, particularly after the US imposed tariffs on India and President Trump's controversial remarks regarding India-Pakistan military tensions last May.

In February, the US and India established a framework for an Interim Agreement focused on reciprocal and mutually beneficial trade.

Misri acknowledged the efforts of India's Consulate General in New York for collaborating with stakeholders, export promotion councils, industrial organizations, and government departments from both countries to create the portal.

Last year, bilateral trade reached an impressive USD 241 billion, marking the fourth consecutive year that the US has been India's largest trading partner, according to the Foreign Secretary.

He pointed out that while several B2B platforms already exist, a dedicated India-US platform is essential to fully realize the potential of this partnership.

This initiative is timely as both nations re-engage in their shared goal of doubling bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030.

Misri concluded by stating that the portal signifies a shift in approach, where governments are not just facilitators but are actively involved in connecting buyers and sellers, minimizing friction, and building trust.