India and the US are working to finalize an initial trade deal before July 9, but a comprehensive agreement may take months due to the Trump administration's unclear trade policy. Key issues include uncertainty over tariff cuts and whether they require US Congress approval. India seeks market access for its businesses in return for lower tariffs and is cautious about protecting sensitive sectors like agriculture. Negotiations currently focus on goods trade, customs, and rules of origin, with services trade not yet addressed. Previous US deals with the UK and China remain interim due to policy shifts and political influences like ties with Elon Musk.