'Not a good partner': Trump targets India with new tariff threat in next 24 hrs

Washington: US President Donald Trump announced plans to significantly increase tariffs on Indian imports within 24 hours, citing India's purchase of Russian oil as the key reason. Trump criticised India for having some of the highest tariffs in the world, arguing that this limits US business access, even as India enjoys substantial trade with the US. He stressed that although the current tariff stands at 25 per cent, he intends to raise it substantially in response to India “fueling the Russian war machine” through oil imports.

Trump also identified India's high tariffs as a major sticking point in failed trade negotiations. Previously, he had accused India of purchasing large volumes of Russian oil and reselling it for profit, indicating this as justification for his decision.

India responded sharply to the US and European Union, condemning what it called “unjustified and unreasonable” targeting of New Delhi for its Russian oil imports. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the double standards at play, stressing that both the US and EU continue to maintain their own significant trade relationships with Russia, including in energy, chemicals, and industrial goods.

India further clarified that its imports from Russia are driven by pressing energy needs, in contrast with what it called non-essential Western trade with Russia. The Indian government reiterated its commitment to protecting its national interests and economic security, underscoring that it would take all necessary measures in the face of such external pressure.

Recently, Trump signed an executive order raising tariffs for over 60 countries, imposing a steep 25 per cent tariff on India. While he referenced penalties for India’s purchases of Russian military equipment and energy, the order did not specify details. White House officials have also publicly criticised India for “financing” the Ukraine conflict through continued oil purchases from Russia.

Trump further warned that the close economic ties between India and Russia could harm both countries, while India, in response, underscored its status as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. Trump continued his critique, referencing high Indian tariffs, burdensome non-tariff barriers, and India's long-standing military and energy relationship with Russia at a time of global conflict.

With inputs from AFP