India-US trade talks have reached a “plateau” as both sides continue to face difficulties in resolving key issues, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday.

Negotiations have continued for several months after India and the United States reached an initial understanding in February. Under the proposed framework, the US would reduce tariffs on Indian goods to 18%, while India would lower duties on selected industrial and agricultural products.

However, further progress has proved challenging. A US investigation into alleged unfair trade practices involving several countries, including India, has added uncertainty to the negotiations.

Sitharaman said both countries still have room to make concessions, although reaching agreement on the remaining issues may be difficult. Her comments followed similar remarks from US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who said a trade deal announcement was not imminent.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump recently discussed trade, defence, energy and critical technologies. The discussions are expected to support continued efforts to resolve outstanding issues.

The India-US trade talks remain focused on finding a balanced agreement that can improve market access while addressing tariff and trade concerns on both sides.