US Slaps 50% Tariffs on Indian Imports Over Russian Oil Deals
US Imposes 50% Tariffs on Indian Imports Over Russian Oil Purchases
WASHINGTON / NEW DELHI – The United States has imposed 50 percent tariffs on a range of Indian imports this week, targeting New Delhi’s large-scale purchases of Russian oil. The move is part of Washington’s broader effort to pressure Moscow into ending its war in Ukraine.
Since returning to the White House earlier this year, President Donald Trump has used tariffs aggressively, reshaping global trade and creating tensions with several major trading partners.
In response, India has emphasized its openness to trade but also its determination to protect national interests. Speaking at a construction industry event in New Delhi on Friday, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said, “India is always ready if anyone wants to have a free trade agreement with us. But we will neither bow down nor ever appear weak. We will continue to move together and capture new markets.”
The tariffs have added strain to US-India relations, with New Delhi previously criticizing them as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” Trade negotiations between the two countries have repeatedly stalled, particularly over access to agriculture and dairy markets. While Trump seeks greater US market access, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to protecting Indian farmers, a key voter base.
In 2024, the US was India’s top export destination, with shipments totaling $87.3 billion. Analysts warn that a 50-percent tariff is effectively a trade embargo, which could disproportionately affect smaller businesses. Exporters in textiles, seafood, and jewelry have already reported canceled US orders and losses to competitors in Bangladesh and Vietnam, sparking concerns about significant job cuts.
Goyal said the Indian government’s Air Canada Strike Halts Flights Despite Government Order would soon roll out measures to support affected sectors and boost exports. “I can say with confidence that India’s exports this year will exceed 2024-25 numbers,” he added.
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