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WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump has ordered an additional 25% tariff on all imports from India, escalating a trade dispute and citing New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil.
The new measure, announced Wednesday by executive order, will take effect in 21 days, on or around August 27, effectively doubling existing duties to about 50% on most Indian goods.
The White House said the move is part of a broader strategy to pressure Moscow over its war in Ukraine, accusing India of “indirectly financing” Russia’s military campaign through its energy imports. “America will not bankroll Putin’s war through the back door,” the presidential statement declared.
India swiftly condemned the decision, calling it “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” Officials argued that the policy undermines global trade stability, insisting India has a sovereign right to secure its energy needs. They also pointed out that other countries buying Russian oil have not faced similar U.S. penalties.
The tariff hike is expected to deal a major blow to India’s key export sectors, including textiles, machinery, and pharmaceuticals. Trade experts warn it could derail ongoing U.S.-India negotiations and fuel a broader diplomatic rift.
This latest action builds on Trump’s sweeping “Liberation Day” tariffs introduced in April, which targeted more than 60 countries under emergency powers. Those measures are still under legal review after facing court challenges earlier this year.
With the increase, India now faces one of the highest U.S. tariff rates in the world, matched only by Brazil, signaling a sharp turn in Washington’s approach to a key strategic partner.
