US officials have expressed renewed confidence that a trade agreement with India is within reach, while acknowledging that its final wording remains unfinished.

The Indian Express reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio described negotiations as close to completion during his visit to India. He said remaining differences concerned language and the need for both governments to understand the agreement consistently.

President Donald Trump also indicated that a deal was approaching. Neither statement amounted to an announcement that negotiations had concluded.

The talks began after Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in February 2025 to pursue a bilateral agreement. Tariffs and differences over India’s purchases of Russian energy have since complicated progress.

Reuters reported earlier this week that Washington’s waiver of Russia-related sanctions and tariff measures had eased a potential obstacle. Rubio said the negotiations had been among the considerations behind that decision.

Energy remains important because India is a major oil importer and must balance fuel costs with diplomatic and commercial pressures.

The latest comments mark a more positive public tone. A completed text and formal announcement will be needed to establish what changes for businesses and consumers.