USIBC urges Trump administration to collaborate with India on AI, sign digital trade agreements

Donald Trump was sworn in as the President of the USA for the second time on January 20, 2025.

The United States and India Business Council (USIBC) has urged the new Trump administration to collaborate more on artificial intelligence (AI) research and development, quantum computing and other deep tech fields, a new report by the industry body said on January 22.

In the report, USIBC Recommendations for the new U.S. Administration, the trade body has also asked the US government to launch a US-India AI and Deep Tech Public Private Council.

Apart from that, the recommendations also include negotiating a digital trade agreement to establish digital trade rules that "support export of services in support of data flows".

Such a digital trade agreement will foster data flows and reduce tariffs, said USIBC. “Lowering trade barriers is critical to ensuring mutual growth,” the report said.

"The new administration should consider policies to advance US national interests and technological prowess to streamline visa processes, expand work permits, and support exchange programs that facilitate workforce mobility by Indians who possess critical skills needed by our most technologically advanced companies..," the report said.

Other key recommendations include negotiating sector-specific trade agreements in defense,  pharmaceuticals.

Recognising India’s growing tech workforce, USIBC proposes a fast-track STEM visa program. "India’s youthful and highly skilled labor force can be an asset for the US in the global tech race," the report asserts.

On energy, the council suggests bolstering LNG, nuclear, and critical minerals trade. It also advocates for co-developing small modular reactors (SMRs) to power clean energy goals.

Defence cooperation and supply chain resilience are additional focus areas. “A Supply Chain Resilience Initiative is essential to safeguard economic stability,” the report highlights.