Though officials indicate that a trade deal with the US is close, President Donald Trump’s Greenland-related tariffs on eight European countries highlight the need for greater caution on India’s part. New Delhi must safeguard its strategic autonomy and build adequate protections into any trade agreement, experts said. An agreement with the US is important as it remains the largest market for Indian goods despite the imposition of 50% tariffs. “India’s exports to the US are still holding up so there is little need to panic or expedite the trade negotiations. The negotiators should also aim to build in safeguards in the deal to guard against reversal of concessions,” a senior industry official said.