Trump’s 26% Tariffs on Indian Imports Take Effect: A Bold Move in Global Trade Tug-of-War

In a sweeping move that could redefine global trade dynamics, US President Donald Trump’s 26% tariffs on Indian imports came into full force on Wednesday morning. The announcement, originally made in the Rose Garden of the White House on April 3, was part of what Trump called his “Liberation Day” declaration — a bold step towards reshaping America’s trade relationships.

Standing firm on his stance, President Trump declared that all major US trading partners would now face a baseline tariff of 10%, with significantly higher rates for countries running trade surpluses with the US. India, a long-standing partner, now faces a 26% import tariff — a move that signals Washington’s tightening grip on trade imbalances.

Speaking from the Oval Office on April 7, Trump doubled down on his tariff blitz, emphasizing that while he considers Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi “a great friend,” he believes India has not “treated the US fairly.”

> “India charges us 52% — we’ll charge them half of that, 26%. I told Prime Minister Modi, 'You’re a friend of mine, but this isn’t fair',” Trump stated.

But India wasn’t alone. The tariff storm has swept across Asia and beyond:

- Vietnam: 46%

- Taiwan: 32%

- South Korea: 25%

- Japan: 24%

- European Union: 20%

- China: A combined 54% after an earlier 20% hike and a fresh 34% surge — with a threat of an additional 50% if Beijing retaliates.

As Trump’s aggressive tariff regime kicks in, India is treading cautiously. The Union Commerce Ministry confirmed that it is closely evaluating the impact of the US move and exploring new trade opportunities amid shifting global currents. Stakeholders from across the Indian industry and the export sector are being consulted as part of a broader strategic assessment.

> “We are aligning our trade response with the vision of a developed India,” a government official stated.

With the tariffs now in effect, all eyes are on New Delhi’s next steps — and whether a tit-for-tat response is on the horizon.