Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Indian Imports as Modi Pushes for Self-Reliance
US President Donald Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on Indian imports to 50% came into effect on Wednesday, escalating trade tensions between Washington and New Delhi. The move followed India’s purchase of discounted Russian crude oil, which triggered the additional 25% duties on top of the tariffs already introduced earlier this month.
The tariff hike comes as negotiations for a new trade deal remain stalled, with India resisting US demands to open its agriculture market. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has responded by urging citizens to support “self-reliance” through greater domestic consumption, a message aimed at protecting Indian farmers and industries from foreign competition.
Trade between the two countries reached $129 billion in 2024, with the US registering a $45.7 billion deficit. Indian analysts warn that the new tariffs could hit up to $50 billion worth of exports, deepening economic strains even as the two nations maintain their strategic partnership.
