India moves ahead on EU deal as US pact hangs fire

India has made considerable progress in its trade deal negotiations with the European Union (EU), closing 20 out of 24 chapters. The deal aims to be finalized before EU leaders visit India later this month. The agreement, excluding sensitive agricultural issues, is expected to be one of the largest trade pacts signed by India, providing an alternative to the uncertain US trade deal. The urgency stems from volatile US trade measures and steep tariffs, which have dampened investment and export prospects for India.