President Trump Criticizes India’s High Tariffs and Announces Reciprocal Measures
U.S. President Donald Trump labeled India as a “very high tariff nation,” announcing reciprocal tariffs commencing April 2, 2025. He criticized India’s tariffs, particularly on auto imports, and voiced the intention of leveling the playing field in international trade. With active trade discussions ongoing and substantial U.S.-India trade figures, the administration aims to address longstanding economic imbalances.
On March 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump criticized India for imposing high tariffs, categorizing the nation as a “very high tariff nation.” He reiterated plans to implement reciprocal tariffs on countries that levy taxes on American goods starting April 2, asserting that this measure would be a significant shift for the U.S. economy.
Trump highlighted that current tariffs are merely “temporary” and referred to them as “small ones,” emphasizing that the forthcoming tariffs would be comprehensive and reciprocal in nature, targeting countries that impose heavy tariffs on U.S. exports. He claimed that the U.S. has been “ripped off by every country in the world” and stated that whatever tariffs other nations charge will be matched by the U.S.
In his address to Congress earlier that week, Trump described the tariffs as “very unfair,” notably referencing high tariffs from India, which, according to him, exceed 100% on vehicles. He had previously labeled India a “tariff king” and criticized its stringent trade barriers. The discussions have intensified as U.S. trade negotiations with India are set to begin, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal being in Washington for talks with U.S. officials.
In 2024, the U.S. reached an estimated $129.2 billion in total goods trade with India, marking an increase in both exports and imports compared to the previous year. However, the trade deficit with India was also substantial, recorded at $45.7 billion in 2024.
President Trump’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions regarding trade tariffs between the U.S. and India. The impending reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2 aim to rectify perceived unfair trade practices. These developments highlight the administration’s focus on renegotiating trade agreements to address longstanding disparities, while trade negotiations continue between both nations.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
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