US Imposes New Tariffs on Indian Goods

Former US President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday, levying an additional 25% tariff on goods originating from India. The order cites India’s direct or indirect importation of Russian oil as justification, supplementing previously announced 25% tariffs.

This action follows Trump’s statement a day earlier regarding increasing tariffs on Indian imports within 24 hours, motivated by India’s sustained acquisition of Russian oil.

The tariff is scheduled to be implemented in three weeks, adding to an existing 25% tariff slated to take effect on Thursday. Exceptions are provided for items already subject to specific sector-based duties, such as steel and aluminum, and potentially affected sectors like pharmaceuticals.

This development poses a threat to the already complex relationship between the US and India. It surfaces shortly after reports indicated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is planning a visit to China later this month, his first in over seven years.

Relations between the US and India are currently experiencing a significant strain, as discussions have so far failed to produce a trade agreement.

The White House initiative, initially hinted at by Trump on Monday, was preceded by meetings in Moscow involving Steve Witkoff, a top diplomatic representative for Trump. These meetings aimed to encourage Russia to pursue peace in Ukraine.

Trump has issued warnings of increased tariffs on Russia and secondary sanctions on nations aligned with Russia should President Vladimir Putin fail to take steps to cease the conflict in Ukraine.