Background

- The white house released a fact sheet on february 9 regarding a new US–India trade understanding.

- A revised version was issued on february 10 with notable wording and content changes.

- The revisions prompted an official response from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

- MEA spokesperson Randhir jaiswal said the edits reflect a “shared understanding” between both countries.

- india described the update as a normal data-alignment with the jointly agreed framework.

Reason for the Changes

- india stated that the factsheet was adjusted to better match the mutually agreed joint statement.

- According to the MEA, the joint statement represents an interim agreement and a broad trade framework.

- The revised wording reduces the risk of misinterpretation of commitments.

- Changes suggest both sides want flexibility while negotiations continue.

- india views the edits as constructive and forward-moving rather than corrective.

Major Wording Shift

- Original factsheet: Said india had committed to purchase over $500 billion in US products.

- Revised factsheet: Rephrased this as an intention or plan to purchase.

- This shifts the language from a firm obligation to a directional target.

- The softer phrasing gives india more policy and budget flexibility.

- It lowers the perception of a binding purchase guarantee.

Agriculture Section Revisions

- Some US agricultural goods were removed from the listed tariff concessions.

- Items affected include certain pulses and related farm products.

- Earlier wording suggested broader tariff reductions on these goods.

- The revised version narrows or clarifies the applicable categories.

- This is significant because agriculture is politically sensitive in India.

Tariff and Market Access Points

- The US states that india will eliminate or reduce tariffs on many industrial goods.

- Several food and agricultural products remain included.

- Examples listed: processed fruits, selected pulses, soybean oil, wine, and spirits.

- Scope appears more selective after revision.

- Details likely subject to phased negotiation and implementation.

Diplomatic Interpretation

- india says the update signals progress, not disagreement.

- Officials frame it as data-alignment with the interim trade framework.

- Both sides appear to be managing expectations publicly.

- The deal is positioned as evolving rather than finalized.

- Further clarifications and sector-specific talks are expected.

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