President Trump criticized high tariffs from India and China, announcing reciprocal tariffs effective April 2. India faces pressure to adjust its duties while forming a committee to assess trade impacts. China warned readiness for trade conflict. Trump’s approach seeks to level trade dynamics by targeting countries with high tariffs and non-tariff barriers.
During a joint session of the US Congress, President Donald Trump condemned the high tariffs imposed by India and China, describing them as “very unfair.” He declared that reciprocal tariffs would commence on April 2, which pressures India to reconsider its tariff rates on US goods within less than four weeks. If adjustments are not made, the US will impose equivalent tariffs on Indian products entering the US market.
India is responding to this announcement by forming a multi-ministry committee tasked with analyzing the expected impact of these reciprocal tariffs on India-US trade dynamics. This comes after a previous meeting in February where Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed a potential bilateral trade agreement, aiming to enhance trade to $500 billion by 2030 under the initiative dubbed “Mission 500.”
In a strong reaction to the tariffs, China expressed willingness to engage in a trade war if necessary. Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian asserted their readiness, stating, “If war is what the US wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end.” This demonstrates China’s resolve against perceived threats by the US administration.
Trump’s statements highlighted disparities in tariff structures, claiming, “India charges us tariffs — 100 percent. The system is not fair to the US, it never was.” He reiterated his administration’s “America First” policy, signifying a shift towards imposing equivalent tariffs on countries with high duties. The plan also includes addressing non-tariff barriers affecting US market access, emphasizing a fundamental change in trade strategy aimed at leveling the trade field.
As these new tariffs target a wide array of imports from significant trading partners, including Canada and the European Union, they reflect Trump’s ongoing efforts to reshape US trade policies. He has consistently viewed global trade agreements as biased against the US and aims to correct these perceived inequities for American economic benefit.
In summary, President Trump’s announcement of reciprocal tariffs against countries like India and China marks a significant shift in US trade policy. With India facing a deadline to adjust its tariffs, the formation of a multi-ministry committee highlights the seriousness of the situation. China’s assertive response signals rising tensions amid trade discussions. Overall, these developments underscore Trump’s commitment to an “America First” strategy aimed at ensuring fairer trade practices for the US.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
