White House Revises India-US Trade Framework Fact Sheet, Softens Language on Tariffs, Digital Tax and Purchase

The White House has revised its fact sheet on the proposed India-US trade framework after concerns were raised by New Delhi over certain claims that did not accurately reflect the understanding reached between the two sides, according to people familiar with the discussions.

White House Revises India-US trade Deal Fact Sheet; Check What Changes

The edits, made quietly after the document was first circulated earlier this week, tone down language related to tariff reductions, digital services taxation and India's proposed purchases of American goods. Officials in New Delhi reportedly flagged what they described as inadvertent inclusions and wording that overstated India's commitments under the framework.

Pulses Removed from Tariff Cuts List

One of the most significant changes relates to agricultural tariffs. The earlier version of the fact sheet had stated that India agreed to reduce import duties on a list of farm products, including "certain pulses," along with items such as tree nuts, soybean oil, wine and spirits.

However, the revised document no longer mentions pulses in the tariff reduction list. Pulses are considered politically and economically sensitive in India, which is the world's largest producer and consumer of lentils, chickpeas and dry beans. Any reduction in import duties on pulses can have domestic implications for farmers and food prices, making the issue particularly delicate.

Key Revision in Digital Services Tax

Another key revision concerns India's digital services tax. The initial fact sheet stated that India "will remove its digital services taxes," suggesting a firm commitment to withdraw the levy.

In the updated version, this wording has been replaced with a more measured phrase indicating that India has "committed to negotiate" digital trade rules. The revised language removes the impression of a definitive pledge and instead frames the issue as part of ongoing negotiations between the two governments.

The change aligns more closely with the joint statement released on February 7, which outlined broad areas of cooperation without detailing specific binding commitments on digital taxation.

The White House also amended language concerning India's prospective purchases of US goods. The earlier draft had stated that India "committed to buy" $500 billion worth of "agricultural" products from the United States.

In the revised fact sheet, this has been softened to say that India "intends to buy" more US products. Additionally, the word "agricultural" has been removed from the description. The updated phrasing mirrors the wording used in the February 7 joint statement, suggesting an effort to ensure consistency between public documents and the negotiated text.

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