Washington, 8 August (H.S.): US President Donald Trump has ruled out trade negotiations with India until the ongoing tariff dispute is addressed, following the administration’s decision to double tariffs on Indian imports to 50%. An Executive Order issued by the White House recently added 25 percentage points to existing tariffs, which were first implemented at 25% on August 7. The new tariff increase will come into effect in 21 days, impacting all Indian goods entering US ports, aside from certain exemptions for items already in transit.

The administration cited national security and foreign policy concerns, particularly regarding India’s imports of Russian oil, describing these imports as an unusual and extraordinary threat to the US, warranting emergency economic measures. When asked about the possibility of resuming trade talks amidst the new tariff regime, Trump replied, No, not until we get it resolved.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar