U.S. Doubles Tariffs on Indian Imports to 50% Over Russian Oil
Washington escalates trade pressure by doubling tariffs on Indian imports to punish New Delhi for continuing to buy Russian oil.
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The United States, under President Donald Trump, has doubled tariffs on most goods imported from India to 50%,
making them the highest in Asia. The move is part of Washington’s effort to penalize India for continuing its purchases of Russian crude.
The higher tariffs came into effect on Wednesday, combining the previous 25% base tariff imposed by Trump with an additional 25% penalty.
However, sector-specific tariffs will not be doubled, meaning Indian exports of steel and aluminum will face duties of 50% instead of 100%.
India has criticized Trump’s decision to raise tariffs as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,”
and vowed to take all necessary steps to protect its national interests.
In recent months, the U.S. has urged India to halt its purchases of Russian oil, citing the country as a strategic partner.
India is among the world’s largest crude importers and a key buyer that helps sustain Russia’s economy—it is also the world’s second-largest oil consumer.
This undermines the effectiveness of Western economic pressure aimed at isolating Russia globally over the war in Ukraine.
India has repeatedly defended its stance, stressing that energy security is its top priority and that its actions are based on national interests.
It also maintains that its dealings with Russia do not violate Western sanctions,
as it is not a party to them and is not legally bound to comply.
U.S. Doubles Tariffs on Indian Imports