Trump Says India to Cut Tariffs on US Products as Reciprocal Tax Takes Effect

On Monday, US President Donald Trump stated that India is preparing to substantially reduce tariffs on American products. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump linked the expected move to the upcoming implementation of the reciprocal tax policy on April 2.

He compared the situation with the European Union, saying, “The EU has already dropped their tariffs down to 2.5% ... I heard a little while ago that India is going to be dropping its tariffs very substantially.” However, there is no official confirmation from the Indian government at this time.

April 2 Set as Key Date for Reciprocal Tariff Rollout

Trump described April 2 as "Liberation Day," emphasizing the launch of reciprocal tariffs. These changes are part of a broader effort by the US administration to address what it sees as long-standing trade imbalances.

He repeated earlier claims that India had agreed to lower tariffs. "They want to cut their tariffs way down now because somebody is finally exposing them," Trump stated, referring to his administration’s push against high foreign tariffs.

White House Criticizes Global Trade Barriers

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed Trump’s remarks. She criticized what she called unfair trade practices by various countries, citing high tariffs from India, Japan, Canada, and the EU on American goods.

According to Leavitt, “You have a 100% tariff from India on American agricultural products and nearly 300% from Canada on American butter and cheese.”

Major Tariff Announcements Expected

President Trump plans to reveal a comprehensive tariff policy on Wednesday, with several nations—including India—expected to be affected. The United States has already implemented a 25% duty on steel and aluminium products starting March 12.

Additionally, a 25% tariff on fully built vehicles and auto parts is scheduled to take effect on April 3, as part of the administration’s broader trade realignment strategy.

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