With tariffs on imports averaging 14%, India is especially vulnerable to the reciprocal levies Trump says he will impose on some countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s longstanding friendly rapport with President Donald Trump could be tested as the Indian leader kicks off a visit to Washington on Wednesday, eager to avoid tariffs that have been slapped on others and threats of further taxes and imports.

India is acutely aware that trade and immigration issues are a potential double whammy. But it believes it can preserve growing ties.

Averting frictions that could lead to a trade war with the United States will be top of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's agenda as he arrives in Washington ahead of a meeting with President Donald Trump.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s longstanding bonhomie with President Donald Trump could be tested as the Indian leader kicks off a visit to Washington on Wednesday, eager to avoid tariffs that have been slapped on others and threats of further taxes and imports.

As two-way trade expands, India’s surplus is growing. President Trump is expected to press Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lower tariffs.

Narendra Modi’s visit to the White House this week feels suspiciously like a victory lap for an Indian leader whose economy hasn’t had a great deal to celebrate of late.