US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced an extra 25 per cent trade tariff on India after it warned the country of action over its oil purchases from Russia, taking the total levy to 50 per cent.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, raising the total trade levy to 50%, in retaliation for New Delhi’s continued oil purchases from Russia.
The decision was formalized through a nine-section Executive Order signed by Trump, detailing the background, scope, and enforcement mechanisms of the new trade duties. The move significantly escalates trade tensions between Washington and New Delhi.
This sharp policy shift comes just a day after Trump issued a stern warning to India, stating that further tariffs would be imposed within 24 hours if the country did not scale back its energy trade with Moscow.
“Inaction has consequences,” Trump said during a press briefing on Wednesday. “If India wants to do business with Russia, then it can’t expect to enjoy free access to our markets.”
India has defended its oil imports from Russia, citing national interest and energy security. However, the Trump administration has repeatedly criticized these transactions, viewing them as undermining Western efforts to isolate Moscow over its actions in Ukraine.
The latest tariff hike is expected to affect a wide range of Indian exports, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, and auto parts — industries that had previously benefited from relatively lower U.S. import duties.
There has been no immediate official response from the Indian government.
This is a developing story…
