Trump Imposes Blanket 25% Tariff on Indian Exports

President Donald Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on all Indian exports to the US, effective August 7, with no product-level exemptions, affecting approximately $25 billion in trade, including pharmaceuticals and electronics. Unlike other countries that received exemptions or lower rates, India faces a blanket duty, marking it as one of the strongest US trade actions against a major partner. The move is part of Trump's strategy to pressure India for trade concessions, particularly regarding market access and India's ties with Russia and BRICS. Indian officials expressed shock and disappointment but are not planning immediate retaliation, instead considering increased US imports to reduce the trade deficit. The tariffs have caused turbulence in global markets, with analysts warning of ongoing policy uncertainty and possible economic retaliation. The executive order allows for potential tariff reductions if a US-India trade deal is reached, but the near-term outlook remains tense.