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India reviewing Trump's 25% tariff threat, reaffirms trade commitment

31 Jul '25
2 min read
India reviewing Trump's 25% tariff threat, reaffirms trade commitment
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump in the US in February 2025. Pic: White House

Insights

  • India is reviewing President Donald Trump's announcement of a 25 per cent tariff and additional penalty on Indian imports from August 1.
  • The Ministry of Commerce reaffirmed India's commitment to a fair, balanced US trade deal, while stressing protection of farmers, MSMEs and national interest.
  • Trump cited India's high tariffs, tough trade barriers, and ties with Russia as justification for the move.
Indian government has said it is studying the implications of Trump’s announcement of imposing 25 per cent tariff and an additional penalty on Indian imports, and reaffirmed its commitment to securing a “fair, balanced and mutually beneficial” trade agreement with the US.

“The Government attaches the utmost importance to protecting and promoting the welfare of our farmers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs,” the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a statement, adding that India will take all necessary steps to secure its national interest—just as it has done in recent trade deals, including the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement with the UK.

President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social on Wednesday, accused India of maintaining among the highest tariffs in the world and implementing “the most strenuous and obnoxious” non-monetary trade barriers. He also criticised India’s continued military and energy cooperation with Russia, calling it contrary to global efforts to pressure Moscow over the war in Ukraine.

Trump stated that while India is a “friend,” the US has “done relatively little business with them over the years” due to persistent trade restrictions. The new tariff will take effect August 1, in line with the administration’s broader plan to impose higher duties on countries lacking bilateral trade deals with the US.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (KD)

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