Trump’s Views on PM Modi and India’s Tariffs: A Balanced Approach
Trump’s Tariff Announcement
US President Donald Trump discussed tariffs on Wednesday, focusing on India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Despite calling Modi a “great friend,” Trump revealed that the US would implement “discounted reciprocal tariffs” of 26% on India.
Trump’s Concerns about India’s Tariffs
- Trump pointed out India’s high tariff rates, which he said were 52% for the US.
- He compared this to the US’s lower tariff rates for India, which he described as “almost nothing.”
- Trump mentioned his efforts to address tariff imbalances with China seven years ago, resulting in hundreds of billions of dollars in tariffs for the US.
Trump’s Past Remarks on India’s Tariffs
Trump has previously criticized India’s tariffs, calling India the “tariff king” and a “big abuser” in global trade. During a joint press conference with Modi in February, Trump acknowledged India’s strong tariffs and trade barriers, making it challenging to sell products in India.
Trump’s Objective: Establishing a Fair Trade Environment
Trump highlighted the US trade deficit with India, estimated to be nearly $100 billion. He stated that he and Modi had agreed to begin negotiations to address long-standing disparities. The aim is to sign an agreement that creates a fair trade environment, which Trump believes both countries deserve.
Trump’s Justification for the New Tariffs
In announcing the new tariffs, Trump defended the move by stating that the US had been “very kind” to trading partners. He explained that the US would now charge trading partners approximately half of the levies they impose on US goods.
