President Donald Trump’s threat to impose new tariffs on India over its participation in the BRICS forum puts New Delhi in a tough position as it races to finalize a favorable trade deal with the US.

India may secure a strategic edge over regional rivals as the Trump administration considers a trade pact slashing proposed tariffs below 20 per cent. Unlike many nations facing sharp hikes, India is unlikely to receive a formal tariff notice ahead of the August 1 deadline.