WASHINGTON, Feb 14: US and Indian officials meet in Washington this week for talks on bilateral trade ahead of President George Bush’s visit to India early next month.

The talks between Indian Commerce Secretary S. N. Menon and Deputy US Trade Representative Karan Bhatia –- scheduled for Feb 16-17 –- will focus on removing obstructions preventing a rapid increase in bilateral trade, officials said.

Indian exports to the US are expected to rise by 18 to 20 per cent this year to reach almost $14 billion. The US exports to India will also increase by 20 per cent to reach over $6 billion.

Both the countries are hoping to enhance their bilateral trade to $40 billion in three years.

India has identified the small and medium enterprises sector as a focus area for achieving the target. The Indian team is coming with proposals for meeting US sanitary and technical requirements that are hindering Indian food exports.