India is ready to make trade deals in the national interest, but not just to meet deadlines, Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday when asked whether a deal could be reached with the U.S. in time for a July 9 deadline set by Washington.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday emphasised that India will only enter into trade agreements, including the proposed US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), when they serve the country's national interests and offer mutual benefits.

India has informed the WTO of its plan to impose retaliatory duties on the US in response to steep American tariffs on auto imports. The move comes as both countries attempt to finalise a trade deal by July 9,