WASHINGTON – Congressmember shashi Tharoor sharply criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies toward India, asserting that tariffs imposed during his governance demonstrably harmed Indian exports and economic growth. Tharoor’s remarks, made on September 12, 2025, during a panel discussion on U.S.-India relations, highlighted the lasting repercussions of Trump’s protectionist measures.
The former president’s decision to revoke India’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) eligibility in June 2019, alongside increased tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, triggered retaliatory measures from India, disrupting bilateral trade flows. These actions, tharoor explained, negatively impacted key Indian industries and contributed to a slowdown in export revenue. The impact extends beyond economics, influencing the broader strategic partnership between the two nations. The current administration is evaluating options to address these lingering trade imbalances and foster a more equitable economic relationship.
Tharoor specifically pointed to the steel and aluminum tariffs as especially damaging. ”The imposition of these tariffs was not onyl economically detrimental to India, but also strategically short-sighted,” he stated. “It created unnecessary friction in a relationship that is otherwise vital to both our countries.” Data released by the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry indicates a 17% decline in steel exports to the U.S.in the fiscal year following the tariff implementation.
The GSP revocation, intended to incentivize greater market access for American companies in India, rather led to increased costs for Indian exporters and a reduction in overall trade volume. While the Trump administration argued these measures were necessary to address trade imbalances and protect American jobs, Tharoor countered that the approach was counterproductive.He emphasized the importance of a collaborative and mutually beneficial trade framework for strengthening the U.S.-India partnership.
the debate over Trump’s India policy resurfaces as both nations navigate evolving geopolitical dynamics and seek to deepen cooperation in areas such as defense, technology, and climate change. Analysts suggest a recalibration of trade policies is crucial to unlocking the full potential of the U.S.-india strategic alliance.
