Amid escalating trade tensions between India and the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted that India would not compromise on the interests of its farmers, even if it meant facing economic fallout.
His remarks come a day after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, citing national security and foreign policy concerns. The move raises the total tariff on Indian goods to 50%, with the new levy set to take effect 21 days after August 7. Goods already in transit or meeting specific exemptions will not be impacted.
According to the White House order, Trump claimed that India’s continued import of Russian oil, either directly or indirectly, posed an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the United States. The executive order leaves room for revisions based on changing global conditions, including any retaliatory measures by affected countries or diplomatic steps taken by India or Russia.
During trade talks, the United States had been pressing for expanded access to India’s agricultural market, particularly in corn, soybeans, and cotton. However, India has maintained a firm stance on protecting its agricultural and dairy sectors, citing the need to safeguard domestic livelihoods.
Quoting news reports, the government has so far resisted demands to open up the sector, amid concerns over the potential impact on Indian farmers. Modi’s latest statement underlines India’s unwillingness to yield on agricultural protections, even as trade tensions threaten to escalate further.
