Trump Halts Trade Talks with India After Imposing Steep Tariffs.
US President Donald Trump has suspended further trade negotiations with India after slapping a sweeping 50% tariff on Indian imports — marking one of the lowest points in US-India trade relations in over two decades.
“Not until we get it resolved,” Trump said in the Oval Office when asked if talks would continue following his tariff announcement. His remarks came after warning of potential “secondary sanctions” on nations trading with Russia, prompting questions about why India was being singled out while others still buy Russian energy.
On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, on top of an existing 25%, taking the total levy to 50%. The new rates will take effect on August 27.
India Calls Move ‘Unfair and Unjustified’
India swiftly condemned the decision as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” vowing to take all necessary steps to protect its national interest. “Our imports are based on market factors and aimed at ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion people,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
Modi Says India Will Not Compromise Farmers’ Interests
Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India would prioritise its farmers, even if it meant paying a heavy price.
“For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority,” Modi said. “India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers. I know I will have to pay a heavy price for it personally, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it.”
India Points to US Double Standards
New Delhi also criticised what it described as US double standards, noting that other major buyers of Russian oil — including China and Turkey — have not faced similar penalties.
India, China, and Turkey are currently the top three importers of Russian oil. Yet, while Trump penalises India, Washington’s 145% tariff on Chinese goods remains suspended under a temporary truce set to expire on August 12.
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