WASHINGTON D.C. (February 12, 2026) – U.S. President Donald Trump has lauded a new trade agreement with India as “historic,” predicting a dramatic surge in American coal and energy exports. Speaking at the “Champion of Coal” event on Wednesday, Trump emphasized that the U.S. is cementing its status as a “massive energy exporter.”
The deal, part of a broader interim framework reached last week, is expected to see India purchase $500 billion in U.S. energy, technology, and aircraft over the next five years.
Key Highlights of the Deal
-
Energy Surge: India intends to significantly increase imports of U.S. coking coal and energy products.
-
Tariff Rollback: The U.S. has lowered reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods—including textiles and solar modules—from 50% to 18%.
-
Strategic Shift: The agreement follows reports that India is reorienting energy imports away from Russia toward U.S. and Venezuelan sources.
India’s Stand: “National Interest First”
In response to the U.S. claims, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that India’s energy sourcing remains a matter of “national interest.” While not explicitly confirming a total halt on Russian oil, Misri noted that procurement decisions by Indian oil companies are guided by:
-
Adequate availability
-
Fair pricing
-
Reliability of supply
“We’re now exporting coal all over the world, and the quality of our coal is supposed to be… the finest anywhere in the world,” Trump stated during the White House event.
