President Donald Trump once again raised concerns over the Trump India trade relationship criticism, calling it “one-sided.” Speaking at the White House, he said India had long charged the US very high tariffs, while American markets remained open.
Trump explained that India levied some of the highest duties in the world, including 200% on Harley Davidson motorcycles. Because of that, Harley Davidson had to set up a plant in India to avoid the steep costs. “For many years India was selling to us freely, but we were not able to send much there,” Trump said.
The US recently imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, combining 25% reciprocal duties and another 25% on India’s oil trade with Russia. Trump argued that these steps were necessary to create fairness. He also claimed that India offered to cut tariffs “to nothing,” but he felt the move came late.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded firmly, saying he would not compromise on farmers, small industries, and national interests. India called the American duties “unjustified and unreasonable,” stressing that every major economy has the right to protect its people and economy.
In 2024-25, US-India goods trade reached USD 131.8 billion.
