Trump Pulls Back Global Tariff War, Pakistan Emerges a Key Beneficiary

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a major policy move, US President Donald Trump has announced a 25 percent reciprocal tariff on imports from India. The decision is part of a broader trade action that includes new tariffs ranging from 10 to 41 percent on dozens of countries across the globe. However, what has raised eyebrows is the relatively lenient treatment of Pakistan, where tariffs have been reduced rather than increased.

According to the official order signed by President Trump, the new tariff structure will come into effect from August 7, just a week after the previously anticipated implementation date of August 1. The United States has imposed a 20 percent tariff on Taiwan and 30 percent on South Africa. Meanwhile, Pakistan has been levied only a 19 percent tariff—down from the earlier 29 percent—indicating a surprising show of leniency.

India, on the other hand, now faces a steep 25 percent duty on its exports to the US. The Indian government has responded by making it clear that there will be no compromise on national interest. The decision is expected to have significant implications for global trade dynamics, potentially sparking new tensions and challenging the already fragile state of international commerce.

Adding to the controversy, countries not specifically named in the order will face a flat 10 percent tariff across the board, as per the White House directive. President Trump’s perceived preferential treatment of Pakistan has once again drawn scrutiny, especially as India faces a harsher tariff regime. The move is likely to trigger strong diplomatic and economic responses in the days ahead.