Trump Slams India with 25% Tariff, New Trade War Looms
Former US President Donald Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on select Indian exports to the United States, effective August 7, 2025. The move, announced late Friday, August 1, 2025, immediately escalated trade tensions between the two nations.
Trump’s order cited India’s “unfair” tariff practices, a significant bilateral trade deficit, and its membership in the BRICS group as key justifications for the punitive measure. No specific details regarding the scope of the affected exports were immediately available.
A separate penalty, reportedly related to India’s recent energy purchases from Russia, was hinted at but not explicitly detailed in the official announcement. This ambiguity has added to the uncertainty surrounding the full impact of Trump’s actions.
The Indian government has pledged to take appropriate measures to protect the interests of its exporters and address the new tariff regime. Details on India’s countermeasures are expected soon.
This unexpected escalation carries significant implications for bilateral trade and could further complicate global economic dynamics, particularly given the ongoing geopolitical tensions. The impact on Indian businesses and consumers will be keenly watched in the coming weeks.