Trump can impose more tariffs on India today, difficulty buying Russian oil, said tomorrow- I will announce in 24 hours
US President Donald Trump has warned to impose additional tariffs on India. There is tension in the relations between America and India over the issue of Russian oil purchase. Today there is a possibility of big announcement.
New Delhi/Washington | 7 August 2025
India may suffer another major setback on the international trade and diplomacy. US President Donald Trump has indicated that he may announce more tariffs on India. This decision can be mainly taken by India for frequent purchase of crude oil from Russia. In a press conference yesterday, Trump said, "I will take a big decision about India in 24 hours."
Oil purchase from Russia created reason
India has been buying crude oil from Russia at concessional rates for the last two years. America has long wants to keep distance from Russia, especially due to Ukraine War. However, India has repeatedly clarified that its energy policy is only based on its national interests.
The Trump administration did not like this. US officials say India's trade from Russia is against the spirit of global sanctions. For this reason, the US is now considering imposing new tariffs ranging from 15% to 30% on steel, pharma, electronics and tech equipment imported from India.
India's response
The Government of India has not given a formal response to this, but according to sources, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce are keeping an eye on the situation. If the tariff increases, India can challenge the US decision in the WTO.
Indo-US trade tension has been there before
This is not the first time the Trump administration plans to increase the tariff on India. Earlier in 2020 and 2022, the US had raised tariffs on Indian products, which was picked up by India at bilateral levels.
Indian business class is worried
There is a stir among India's trade boards and exporters. Fieo (Federation of Indian Export Organizations) has said that India's exports can be affected by about ₹ 40,000 crore if the tariff is increased, especially steel and pharma exports to the US.
Impact of Trump's statements
Addressing the press at the White House yesterday, Trump said:
"We cannot open our markets for those countries that do not listen to us. India will have to stop purchasing oil from Russia, otherwise it will have to pay the economic price."
Opinion of experts
International Business Specialist Prof. Vivek Anand says, "This strategy of Trump can also be part of the politics of the election year. But this is sure to affect relations with India."
Global response
The European Union has termed this attitude of the US as a "policy of economic pressure". China and Brazil have supported India's independent trade rights.
Public and social media response
#TariffThreat and #Indiausrelations are trending on social media. Many users have described it as an attack on India's sovereignty, while some called Trump's policy "excesses of America".
What will happen next?
If Trump announces a new tariff policy today, it will be a major strategic challenge for India. India will have to keep its stand firm on international forums and adopt measures to support domestic industries.