US Imposes 25% Tariff on India Amid Trade Deficit Concerns

In a significant trade policy shift, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States intends to levy a 25% tariff on Indian imports beginning August 1. The move comes as a response to the ongoing trade deficit with India, which Trump criticized for maintaining high tariffs and stringent non-monetary trade barriers.

Addressing the issue on Truth Social, Trump stated, "Remember, while India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest in the World, and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary Trade Barriers of any Country." The President expressed particular concern about India's extensive military equipment purchases from Russia and its role as a major energy buyer alongside China, highlighting the international call for Russia to cease its aggression in Ukraine.

Trump's announcement emphasized that India's economic policies and geopolitical alliances necessitate this tariff adjustment. "INDIA WILL THEREFORE BE PAYING A TARIFF OF 25%, PLUS A PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE, STARTING ON AUGUST 1st. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. MAGA!" Trump concluded. The situation remains fluid, with further developments anticipated. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)