Priyanka Tiwari
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US President Donald Trump has declared that, starting April 2, the United States will impose tariffs on India that are equal to the duties India charges on US goods. Trump emphasized that New Delhi may reduce its tariffs “substantially” before the deadline.
In an interview with Breitbart News, Trump expressed confidence that the Indian government would likely lower the tariffs as the deadline approaches. “I believe they (Indian government) are probably going to lower the tariffs substantially,” he said. However, he remained firm on the April 2 deadline, stating, “On April 2, we will be charging them (India) the same tariff they charge us.”
Trump has repeatedly mentioned the April 2 date, calling it “liberation day for America” in a post on Truth Social, the social media platform he owns. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Truth Social, further fueling speculation about the US-India tariff situation.
US-India Trade Negotiations and Future Agreements
Amid the tariff dispute, New Delhi and Washington are negotiating a multi-sector bilateral trade agreement, which is expected to be announced later this year. In addition to the US, India is also engaged in talks with several global economic groups and countries for various trade pacts.
Reports suggest that the US administration is closely examining the tariff issue, with some indicating that India could be granted relief until September. This ongoing negotiation process is crucial as both countries seek to find a resolution that satisfies their respective economic interests.
Jaishankar Discusses Tariff Realities and Economic Weaponization
During a session at the Raisina Dialogue 2025, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, addressed the realities of tariffs in international trade. He acknowledged that tariffs are an unavoidable aspect of the global economic landscape. Jaishankar also raised concerns over the increasing “weaponization” of economic activities, highlighting the challenges countries face in navigating complex trade relations.
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