 US President Donald Trump speaks at a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA) |
The new import tax, effective 21 days after August 7, will raise duties on some Indian exports to as high as 50% - among the highest levied on any US trading partner.
The US government has cited multiple reasons for its decision, including the scope and complexity of India’s overlapping tariff systems. According to the White House, the measure is “necessary to preserve the effectiveness” of sanctions, safeguard national interests, and ensure US foreign policy is strictly enforced.
Notably, the executive order was signed just hours before the new tariff rate took effect on Thursday, August 7, applying to the majority of Indian exports to the US.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued its first response late on Wednesday, expressing regret over the US decision but affirming that India will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests and security.
