India Faces US Trade Ire: Slow Talks Spark Tariff Threat
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed deep frustration on Thursday, July 31, 2025, over the sluggish pace of trade negotiations with India. He voiced concerns about India’s trade practices.
Bessent’s statement follows earlier actions by the Trump administration. A 25% tariff on certain Indian goods remains in place.
Further penalties were levied for India’s purchase of Russian oil. The US alleges India is reselling refined products, violating the spirit of sanctions.
The accusation of India not being a “great global actor” adds a layer of geopolitical tension to the economic dispute.
This escalating trade conflict holds significant implications for India’s economic growth and its strategic relationship with the US. The potential for further trade restrictions poses a serious challenge to India’s export-oriented sectors. The government’s response and future negotiations will be crucial in mitigating the economic fallout.