Trump Critiques India’s High Tariffs While Advocating for Stronger Bilateral Trade Relations
President Trump praised the U.S.-India relationship but criticized India’s high tariffs. He threatened reciprocal tariffs starting April 2 if India fails to lower its tariffs. Ongoing negotiations aim to enhance bilateral trade agreements, as both countries seek to improve their trade ties in the future.
United States President Donald Trump has expressed his positive rapport with India but highlighted a significant concern regarding the nation’s high tariffs. He stated that India is among the highest tariffing nations globally and reiterated his intent to impose reciprocal tariffs on imports from India beginning April 2 if tariffs from India remain unchanged.
In an interview with Breitbart News, Trump mentioned his recent summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted, “I have a very good relationship with India, but the only problem I have with India is they’re one of the highest tariffing nations in the world.” He expressed hope that India would lower its tariffs substantially.
Additionally, Trump discussed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), describing it as a coalition of favorable nations uniting against trade adversities. He emphasized the importance of fair treatment in trade and noted that, paradoxically, the United States fares better with some of its adversaries than with traditional allies like the European Union.
The President has consistently criticized India’s high tariffs, previously labeling the country as a “tariff king,” stating that the high tariffs hinder trade. He acknowledged in a past conference that selling into India is challenging due to intense trade barriers.
On March 10, Indian Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal informed a Parliamentary panel that negotiations concerning trade tariffs between India and the United States are ongoing, with no definitive agreement reached. India is reportedly aiming to enhance trade relations with the U.S., which includes discussions on reducing both tariff and non-tariff barriers, facilitated under a prospective bilateral trade agreement announced during Modi’s visit to the U.S. last month.
In summary, President Trump’s commentary on U.S.-India trade relations underscores a significant tension due to India’s high tariffs. While he acknowledges a strong bilateral relationship, he remains firm on the necessity of reciprocal tariffs. The ongoing negotiations between India and the U.S. suggest that both nations are exploring pathways towards a more advantageous trading partnership, aiming to mitigate existing trade barriers.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
