The White House cites India’s continued Russian oil imports as a national security threat, triggering fresh economic measures and a 21-day countdown to new tariffs.
BY PC Bureau
US President Donald Trump has ruled out any trade negotiations with India until a deepening tariff dispute is resolved, following Washington’s move to double duties on Indian imports.
Asked by ANI in the Oval Office if talks might resume despite the new 50% levy, Trump was blunt: “No, not until we get it resolved.”
On Wednesday, the White House issued an Executive Order imposing an additional 25 percentage points in tariffs on Indian goods — on top of an existing 25% — citing national security and foreign policy concerns. The order singled out India’s continued purchases of Russian oil, direct or via intermediaries, calling them an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the United States that warranted emergency economic action.
Trump shuts the door on trade talks with India over the tariff row —
When asked if the 50% tariffs could spark fresh negotiations, he replied:
“No, not until we get it resolved.” pic.twitter.com/fTv4QjG2BC— Diplomatic Talk with Prabhat (@talk_prabhat) August 8, 2025
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The first 25% tariff took effect on 7 August. The additional duty will kick in 21 days from now, covering all Indian goods entering US ports, except consignments already in transit and certain exempt categories. The order allows the president to adjust measures based on evolving geopolitical conditions or retaliatory steps by India or other nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded defiantly at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, vowing not to bow to economic pressure.
“For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority,” Modi said. “India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it.”
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New Delhi has long resisted opening its agriculture and dairy sectors to global competition, warning of the risks to millions of rural livelihoods.
The latest moves mark a sharp escalation in US–India trade tensions, with both sides showing no sign of backing down over economic policy and national priorities.
