On May 8, Indian trade officials and industry representatives will present their case at the U.S. Trade Representative's office, contesting allegations made by the U.S. regarding structural excess capacity in sectors such as petrochemicals, steel, and solar modules. The U.S. initiated this investigation under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act, claiming that India has created significant excess production capacity while also identifying textiles, health, construction goods, and automotive goods as areas where India has a global trade surplus. India has firmly rejected these allegations, arguing that its $42 billion bilateral trade surplus with the U.S. in 2025 is a result of various macroeconomic factors rather than excess capacity. The hearing will also feature representatives from industries including plastics, cotton textiles, and solar manufacturing. Additionally, India is contesting another investigation launched by the U.S. on March 12 regarding forced labor, asserting that it does not meet the legal requirements for initiation under U.S. law.