US President Donald Trump has made it clear there will be no trade negotiations with India until a bitter tariff dispute is resolved, after his administration moved to double duties on Indian goods to one of the highest levels in the world.
The move, announced through an Executive Order on Wednesday, imposes an additional 25% levy on Indian imports, raising total tariffs to 50%. The White House cited national security and foreign policy concerns, pointing to New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil despite Western sanctions.
Tariffs tied to Russian oil imports
The order alleges that India’s oil imports from Russia — whether bought directly or through intermediaries — pose an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to US interests, justifying emergency economic measures.
Also Read: Trump imposes additional 25% tariff on India over Russian oil ties
The initial 25% tariff came into effect on August 7, while the new 25% increase will apply from August 27. Exceptions include goods already in transit and certain exempt categories. The executive order allows flexibility for the president to adjust measures based on geopolitical developments or retaliatory actions.
Trump’s clear stand on trade talks
When asked if the US would pursue trade talks with India in light of the new tariffs, Trump’s response was firm: “No, not until we get it resolved.”
The president stressed that the dispute must be addressed before any trade negotiations can resume.
Also Read: India condemns extra US tariffs as 'unjustified, unreasonable'
India calls move ‘unjustified’
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) criticised the decision, calling the targeting of India “unjustified and unreasonable.”
“Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the MEA said in a statement.
Wider geopolitical implications
Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra warned that the tariffs could have broader strategic consequences, noting that “hurting India is to hurt Russia,” but it could also harm US interests.
Also Read: India defends Russian oil imports amid Trump's fresh threat
Batra suggested that resolving the conflict in Ukraine through a “genuine ceasefire” involving Vladimir Putin, Narendra Modi, and Xi Jinping could reset relations and prevent a “domino effect” that risks global economic stability.
