The India-US Trade Policy Forum (TPF) is a key mechanism for dialogue and cooperation on trade and investment issues between the two countries.  Established in 2005, the TPF serves as a platform for ministerial-level discussions between India and the United States. It brings together representatives from both governments, including the Minister of Commerce and Industry for India and the United States Trade Representative (USTR).

The India-US Trade Policy Forum conference holds significant importance in enhancing service trade between the two countries. 

• Trade Partnership: The United States is India's largest trade partner, and fostering stronger trade ties with the US is crucial for India's economic growth. The Trade Policy Forum provides a platform to address trade-related issues and explore opportunities for increasing bilateral trade, including in services.
• Export Opportunities: India relies heavily on US demand for its exports, especially in the services sector. As India's services exports continue to grow, tapping into the US market becomes essential for sustaining this growth trajectory. The Trade Policy Forum helps identify areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration to boost service trade.
• Counterbalancing China: Amidst geopolitical dynamics, including the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), India sees the US as a strategic partner to counterbalance China's influence in the region. Strengthening trade relations through forums like the Trade Policy Forum can further align economic interests and reinforce strategic cooperation.
• Addressing Trade Tensions: Trade tensions, such as the loss of Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) benefits and trade disputes, need to be addressed through dialogue and negotiation. The Trade Policy Forum serves as a platform to discuss and resolve such issues, ensuring a conducive environment for trade expansion.
• Totalisation Agreement: India's longstanding demand for a totalisation agreement with the US is another key agenda in the Trade Policy Forum. This agreement would provide social security benefits to Indian professionals working in the US, particularly in the IT sector. Resolving this issue through bilateral discussions can enhance the attractiveness of the US market for Indian professionals.

Generalised System of Preferences (GSP)

Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)