Washington, D.C.: US President Donald Trump has announced new reciprocal tariffs on several trade partners, including India and China, stating that the move is aimed at countering unfair trade practices. Speaking at the White House Rose Garden, Trump said the US will impose a 26% tariff on Indian imports and 34% on Chinese imports, claiming these were “discounted” rates compared to the high tariffs these nations impose on American goods.
Describing India’s tariffs as “very, very tough,” Trump remarked, “Their Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) just left… he is a great friend of mine, but I said, ‘You’re not treating us right.’ India charges us 52%, so we will charge them half of that—26%.”
Tariffs on Other Trade Partners
- European Union: 20% import duty
- United Kingdom: 10% import duty
- Japan: 24% import duty
These country-specific tariffs come in addition to a 10% base import duty on all products entering the US, which takes effect from April 5 at 12:01 am local time. The higher, targeted tariffs will be implemented from April 9.
‘Liberation Day’ for US Industries
Trump declared April 2 as “Liberation Day”, emphasizing that the US will no longer tolerate “unfair” trade practices. “For far too long, other countries have looted and plundered us… but no longer. We will impose tariffs on those who tariff us,” he stated.
The White House later justified the move, citing “national security concerns due to persistent trade deficits.” While the administration has not provided an industry-wise breakdown of the tariffs, Trump asserted that the policy will boost American jobs, industries, and small businesses.
The new tariff strategy marks a sharp shift in US trade policy, intensifying trade tensions with key global partners while reinforcing Trump’s focus on domestic economic interests ahead of the US presidential elections.
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