Washington Imposes Tariffs on India, US Official Cites Complex Relations

Following the imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian goods, Kevin Hassett, the US National Economic Council Director, described the relationship between the US and India as “complicated.” The tariffs, which went into effect earlier this week, were, according to Hassett, partially linked to efforts to influence Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict. Hassett stated that India’s unwillingness to open its markets to American products contributed to the complexities. The tariffs were implemented after a notice from US Customs and Border Protection outlined the details, in accordance with President’s Executive Order 14329. The additional duties, which brought the total tariffs to 50%, were applied because of India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil. Hassett suggested that trade negotiations should be viewed from a long-term perspective, anticipating fluctuating progress. He also indicated that President Trump might adopt a stronger stance if India did not yield.