Trump Freezes Trade Talks with India After Slapping 50% Tariffs.
US President Donald Trump has halted trade negotiations with India after imposing a steep 50% tariff on Indian imports, escalating a dispute that has pushed bilateral trade ties to their lowest point in more than 20 years.
“Not until we get it resolved,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office when asked if talks would resume. The move comes alongside his warning of “secondary sanctions” on nations trading with Russia, prompting criticism from New Delhi over what it calls selective targeting.
On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order adding 25% to existing tariffs on Indian goods, bringing the total levy to 50%. The new rates take effect August 27.
India Hits Back
Calling the decision “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” India vowed to safeguard its national interest. “Our imports are driven by market factors and the energy security of 1.4 billion Indians,” the Ministry of External Affairs said.
Modi: Farmers Come First
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, said India would never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, or dairy producers. “I know I will have to pay a heavy price for it personally, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it,” he declared.
Double Standards Charge
New Delhi also accused Washington of double standards, noting that China and Turkey — also among the top three buyers of Russian oil — have escaped similar penalties. Meanwhile, the US’s 145% tariff on Chinese goods remains suspended under a temporary trade truce set to expire August 12.
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