Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on India, Denounces Trade as “Totally One-Sided Disaster”
WASHINGTON – September 1, 2025 – Former President donald Trump has authorized a 50% tariff on a range of Indian exports to the United States, escalating a trade dispute that has rapidly soured relations between the two nations. The move, announced yesterday, follows months of increasing U.S.criticism of India’s continued purchase of Russian oil and arms, alongside accusations of unfair trade practices.
Trump characterized the India-U.S. trade relationship as “a totally one sided disaster!” in a social media post, alleging that India charges the U.S. the “most” tariffs of any country, hindering American businesses. ”The reason is that India has charged us, until now, such high Tariffs…that our businesses are unable to sell into India,” he wrote.
The tariff action includes secondary duties of 25% previously imposed last month for purchasing Russian oil, which India has labeled “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.” Trump further asserted that India is simultaneously benefiting from significant sales to the U.S.while maintaining high tariffs on American exports.
Data from the World Trade organization indicates that in 2024, India imposed an average tariff of 6.2% on U.S. imports (trade-weighted basis), while the U.S. levied 2.4% on Indian goods.
The escalating tensions follow the breakdown of potential trade negotiations. In May, India reportedly offered a “zero-for-zero” tariff deal on steel, auto components, and pharmaceuticals, but the two countries failed to reach an agreement.
India’s foreign ministry has countered U.S. criticism by pointing out that several nations critical of India’s trade with Russia are themselves engaged in commerce with Moscow, arguing that such trade is a “vital national compulsion” for India.
The dispute coincides with a strengthening of ties between India and China. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met with chinese President Xi Jinping at the SCO summit in Tianjin (August 31-September 1),reaffirming the importance of their partnership.
U.S.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent downplayed the possibility of the tariffs driving India and China closer together,characterizing the SCO summit as “performative.” Though, experts suggest improved india-China relations could benefit both countries.
“The improvement of relations with India is a big deal. It allows India to access highly critical intellectual property that it needs if it is to industrialize and boost manufacturing,” saeid Marko Papic, chief strategist at GeoMacro Strategy BCA Access. He also noted the potential for the situation to “further ossify multipolarity” as the U.S. struggles to counter narratives framing china as a primary global disruptor.
