Trump’s 50% tariff sows ‘total mistrust’ between US and India
Analysts say the US president’s move has little to do with economics and has injected unwanted ‘volatility’ into a once-stable relationship
An abrupt decision by US President Donald Trump to double tariffs on Indian goods has triggered what analysts describe as a “total mistrust” in bilateral ties and sent a “muddled strategic signal” about Washington’s foreign policy priorities.
“I find that the Government of India is currently directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil,” Trump said in the executive order.
The additional tariff will take effect on August 27, while the original 25 per cent levy began on Thursday.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the tariffs “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable”, adding that New Delhi would take “appropriate steps to protect national interest”.