India Stands Firm Against US Tariff Hike, Cites National Interests
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, raising the total tariff to 50% when combined with the existing 25% duty. Effective August 27, 2025, this measure targets India’s continued imports of Russian oil and military equipment, which Trump claims indirectly fuels Russia’s war in Ukraine. The move places India among the highest-tariffed nations in Asia, with duties 20% higher than those on China and 31% higher than on Pakistan. In response, India has firmly reiterated its commitment to protecting national interests, calling the tariffs “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable” and vowing to take all necessary actions to safeguard its economic security.
India’s foreign ministry swiftly condemned the US action, emphasizing that the country’s energy decisions are driven by market factors and the need to ensure energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens. “It is extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest,” the ministry stated. It highlighted that the US had previously encouraged Russian oil imports early in the Ukraine conflict to stabilize global energy markets, making the current targeting of India inconsistent and unwarranted. The statement underscored India’s resolve to protect its economic and strategic priorities, signaling a robust yet measured pushback.
Earlier this month, when the initial 25% tariff was announced, India indicated it was studying the implications while remaining committed to securing a fair trade deal. The foreign ministry had pointed out that India is not alone in importing Russian goods, noting that Europe and the US continue to engage in trade with Russia in sectors like energy, fertilizers, chemicals, and uranium for nuclear industries. “The targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable,” the ministry had declared, emphasizing that India, like any major economy, would take necessary measures to safeguard its interests.
