India Could Face 500% Tariffs Over Russian Oil Under Trump-Backed US Bill
India and China may be hit with tariffs of up to 500% as early as next week after President Donald Trump approved a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting countries that continue to buy Russian oil. Sponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, the legislation would also penalize nations importing Russian uranium, while giving Trump “tremendous leverage” to push India, China, and Brazil to curb purchases of discounted Russian energy, which funds Putin’s war in Ukraine.
Graham posted on X, “This bill will allow President Trump to punish countries buying cheap Russian oil fuelling Putin’s war machine. It’s well-timed as Ukraine makes concessions for peace.” The bill, which also bans US energy exports and investments in Russia, has not yet been voted on, though a vote could take place as early as next week. Trump has indicated he may specifically target India, the world’s second-largest buyer of Russian oil after China.
Last year, Trump imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian imports plus an additional 25% penalty for Russian oil purchases, straining bilateral trade. Tensions with China also escalated, with US tariffs reaching 145% and retaliatory Chinese duties at 125%.
Trump recently reiterated his willingness to impose fresh tariffs on India, saying, “PM Modi’s a very good man… They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly.” He also threatened tariffs on Indian rice over alleged dumping at a White House roundtable.
While Washington pushes for concessions, New Delhi remains firm on protecting its agricultural and dairy sectors, keeping talks with the US at a standstill.
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