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Reacting to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of reciprocal tariffs against India, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar on Wednesday emphasized that India has had “a very open conversation” with the U.S. administration about the need for a trade agreement.
Speaking at Chatham House in London, Jaishankar noted that Trump’s tariff policy was expected, as it aligns with the promises he made after assuming office in January this year.
Jaishankar’s Take on Trump’s Tariff Policy
Addressing concerns over Trump's move, Jaishankar stated:
“It is interesting … Some of it is not surprising… If you actually tracked it. Most of the time, political leaders do what they promised to do. What we saw was expected… I am a little surprised that people are surprised.”
Does the U.S. Policy Favor India?
When asked whether Trump’s policies are beneficial for India, Jaishankar pointed out that India has not had major issues with any recent American presidents and that there are several areas of mutual interest between the two nations.
“Yes, in many ways. My PM was in D.C. We see the President and administration is more for multipolarity. Politically, we have never had any issues with American presidents in recent times. We carry no baggage.”
Jaishankar highlighted key aspects of Trump’s approach that align with India’s interests, including:
Reasonable energy prices
Emphasis on technology and its development as a game-changer
Support for connectivity initiatives
Revival of QUAD, ensuring no "free riders"
He acknowledged that Trump has a specific stance on trade, but India has had open discussions with the U.S. on this matter.
“We agreed on the need for a trade agreement, and our Trade Minister in the U.S. is working on that.”
Trump Announces Reciprocal Tariffs Against India
On Tuesday, while addressing a joint session of Congress, President Donald Trump reaffirmed his commitment to imposing reciprocal tariffs on countries like India, China, the European Union, and Brazil to boost the “America Rich Again” agenda.
Key Points from Trump’s Speech:
Tariffs to Take Effect from April 2
"Whatever they tariff us, we will tariff them. Whatever they tax us, we will tax them."
Claims that India imposes a 100% tariff on automobiles
Trump emphasized that several nations impose significantly higher tariffs on U.S. products, citing India’s automobile tariff as an example of unfair trade practices.
With tensions over trade policies rising, all eyes are now on the next steps between Washington and New Delhi, as both sides navigate negotiations for a potential trade deal.
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