US President Donald Trump on Tuesday reiterated his criticism of India’s trade practices, stating that the US-India trade relationship has been “one-sided” for years due to New Delhi’s high tariffs on American goods. His remarks came a week after Washington doubled tariffs on Indian imports to 50% in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
Trump Criticizes India’s High Tariffs
Trump highlighted the long-standing trade disputes between the two countries, pointing to India’s steep tariff on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, which was once set at 200%. “America maintains a good relationship with India, but for many years, the trade relationship has been one-sided. India has imposed high tariffs on American products while benefiting from access to the US market,” Trump said.
This is not the first time Trump has raised the issue. During his previous tenure, he frequently complained about what he saw as unfair trade practices by India, urging New Delhi to open up its markets and reduce barriers for US exports.
Tariffs, Russian Oil, and Global Tensions
Trump’s latest comments also come against the backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions. The US recently doubled levies on Indian imports after India increased its purchases of discounted Russian crude oil, despite Western sanctions on Moscow. Washington has repeatedly warned that India’s close energy ties with Russia undermine efforts to isolate President Vladimir Putin following the Ukraine conflict.
Meanwhile, Trump used the opportunity to lash out at China as well. As Beijing hosted its largest military parade in decades to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the former president accused Chinese leader Xi Jinping of “conspiring” with Russia and North Korea against the United States. In a post on Truth Social, Trump sarcastically extended “warm regards” to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, who stood alongside Xi during the event in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square.
“Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against the United States of America,” Trump said in a post directed at Xi on his Truth Social platform on September 3.
US-India Trade Relations at a Crossroads
Despite Trump’s criticism, the US and India remain key strategic partners, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached nearly $200 billion in 2024, making India one of America’s fastest-growing trade partners. However, recurring disputes over tariffs, market access, and intellectual property rights have often strained the relationship.
Experts say Washington and New Delhi will need to find common ground on tariffs and trade rules if they want to strengthen economic cooperation. With India emerging as a major global economy and the US seeking allies to counter China’s rise, both sides have strong incentives to resolve their differences.
Helene Elliott is the senior reporter for News Raise. She covers Science news. She also has a keen interest in photojournalism. Helene holds a nomination for the prestigious Red Smith Award. She is married to author Dennis D’Agostino, a former publicist with the New York Mets.
