India Stands Firm Against Trump’s Pressure: US-India Trade Talks Collapse Over 25% Tariff Dispute
New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): The much-anticipated trade talks between India and the United States have once again hit a roadblock, plunging into deep uncertainty. India has firmly refused to bow to US President Donald Trump’s pressure tactics, making it clear that no formal negotiations will move forward unless Washington rolls back the 25% additional tariffs imposed on Indian products.
According to a senior official from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the US trade delegation was scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on August 25 for the next round of discussions. However, the visit was abruptly cancelled following direct intervention from President Trump.
Trump has reportedly raised objections to India’s purchase of oil from Russia, calling it a “major hurdle” and insisting that no trade agreement would be possible until this issue is resolved.
The Indian official emphasized that while the August 25 talks have been postponed, communication channels remain open:
“At present, we are not negotiating any trade agreement, but dialogue continues. Unless the US reconsiders the 25% tariff, any agreement would be meaningless for our exporters.”
It is worth noting that on August 6, Trump announced the imposition of a 25% additional tariff on Indian crude imports from Russia, claiming it undermined US interests. The move has further weakened prospects of a balanced trade deal.
Both countries have been trying for years to finalize a comprehensive trade agreement, covering key sectors such as agriculture, IT, pharmaceuticals, and energy. However, repeated clashes over tariffs and import-export conditions have stalled progress.
This is not the first time trade disputes have escalated. In 2019, the US removed India from its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) list, prompting India to retaliate with counter-tariffs on several American products. For now, the fate of the India-US trade talks hangs in the balance, with tariffs and geopolitical tensions casting a long shadow.
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