Karnataka Minister Warns of US Tariffs Threatening India's Electronics Sector

The Karnataka IT Minister, Priyank Kharge, voiced serious concerns over the United States imposing a 25% tariff on Indian exports, stating it could severely affect India's competitiveness against countries like Vietnam, which enjoys a lower tariff rate of 20%.

Kharge emphasized the critical role of the Indian government in protecting the country's electronics manufacturing sector, noting that state governments alone cannot address the complexities of international trade disputes. He urged the central government to re-examine its trade strategies to safeguard national interests.

The minister pointed out the inadequacies of India's perceived proximity to the US and emphasized the need for India to act decisively to protect its ecosystem amid global economic shifts fueled by technology and innovation. Kharge called for a reassessment of the policy framework to prevent potential setbacks in the electronics manufacturing domain.

(With inputs from agencies.)