The new US tariffs doubled the existing 25% duty on Indian exports. The levies hit more than 55% of goods shipped to the US — India’s biggest market — and hurt labour-intensive industries like textiles and jewellery the most. Key exports like electronics and pharmaceuticals are exempt, sparing Apple Inc.’s massive new factory investments in India for now.
The tariffs have stunned Indian officials and followed months of trade talks between New Delhi and Washington. India was among the first countries to open trade talks with the Trump administration, but its own high tariffs and protectionist policies in sectors such as agriculture and dairy have frustrated US negotiators.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs did not respond to a request for comment outside regular office hours and the White House didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment. The US Trade Representative’s Office also didn’t immediately respond.
Trump has grown frustrated with India for buying Russian oil, which he said helps fund President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine.
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Putin are meeting in China, signalling that New Delhi’s ties with Moscow remain firm despite relentless pressure from the Trump administration. Modi declared Monday that India and Russia share a “special” relationship.
