Trade negotiators from two major economies resumed talks this week after a months-long standstill, with both sides signaling openness to targeted tariff exemptions.
The renewed dialogue follows pressure from domestic industries on both sides that have absorbed higher costs during the impasse.
Officials cautioned that a full agreement remains distant, but described the resumption of talks as a meaningful step after a difficult year for bilateral relations.
Markets in both countries responded positively to news of the talks, though analysts urged caution given the history of stalled negotiations.