Will Trump Substantially Increase Tariffs on India?
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Synopsis
US President Donald Trump plans to raise tariffs on India significantly within 24 hours after announcing a 25% tariff set for August 7. This move comes amid accusations against India for purchasing Russian oil. India's government has deemed the US's actions as unjustified, while Russia supports India's right to choose its trading partners.
Key Takeaways
- Trump's announcement of increased tariffs on India could escalate trade tensions.
- India's oil imports from Russia are under scrutiny from the US.
- The Indian government has deemed the tariffs as unjustified.
- Russia supports India's right to choose its trading partners.
- Bilateral trade relations could be significantly impacted.
Washington, Aug 5 (NationPress) - In a significant development, US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he plans to increase tariffs on India within the next 24 hours, following the introduction of a 25 percent tariff set to take effect on August 7.
During an interview with CNBC, Trump indicated a revision to the previously agreed upon rate of 25 percent, stating, "India has the highest tariffs. We conduct minimal business with India. While we settled on 25 percent, I am considering a substantial increase within the next day."
He accused India of purchasing Russian oil, claiming it supports the Russian war effort.
This announcement follows Trump's statement the previous day in which he expressed intentions to "significantly raise US tariffs on India," criticizing the nation for profiting from its substantial Russian oil imports.
The Indian government has labeled these potential tariffs as "unjustified and unreasonable."
In response, Russia condemned the US's pressure tactics, calling them "illegitimate." The Kremlin expressed support for India, arguing that "sovereign nations should have the freedom to select their trade partners."
Russian President's spokesman, Dmitri Peskov, stated, "Russia acknowledges the US threats against India but finds them illegitimate. Sovereign nations must have the right to choose their own trade partners and economic cooperation regimes that best serve their interests," according to the state-owned news agency TASS.
After Trump's tariff threats, the Indian government firmly stated that targeting India for its Russian oil purchases is unwarranted.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) remarked that, like any major economy, "India will take all necessary measures to protect its national interests and economic security."
The government highlighted that India has faced scrutiny from the United States and the European Union for importing Russian oil since the onset of the Ukraine conflict.
"In fact, India began importing from Russia due to traditional supplies being redirected to Europe after the conflict's outbreak. The United States had even encouraged India to strengthen global energy market stability during that time," it emphasized.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the nuanced dynamics at play. The U.S. is exerting pressure on India over its oil purchases from Russia, a move that reflects broader geopolitical tensions. While the U.S. focuses on sanctions and tariffs, India emphasizes its right to secure energy supplies amidst changing global markets. Balancing national interests and international relations will be vital as this situation unfolds.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What tariffs is Trump imposing on India?
Trump plans to raise tariffs on India significantly within 24 hours, after initially announcing a 25% tariff effective from August 7.
Why is India facing tariffs from the US?
India is being targeted due to its purchases of Russian oil, which the US claims supports the Russian war efforts.
How has India responded to the tariff threats?
India's government has called the potential tariffs unjustified and stated it will take necessary measures to protect its national interests.
What is Russia's stance on the US tariffs against India?
Russia has condemned the US's threats as illegitimate and supports India's right to choose its trading partners.
What are the implications of these tariff increases?
The tariff increases could escalate trade tensions and impact global energy markets, affecting both countries' economies.
