WASHINGTON : The White House confirmed on Wednesday that an additional 25% tariff will be imposed on Indian goods, bringing the total levy to 50%, one of the highest rates imposed on any U.S. trading partner. The new tariffs will take effect in 21 days, while the previously announced 25% duties are set to be enforced starting Thursday.

“I find that the Government of India is currently directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil,” Trump said in his executive order.

The move comes after weeks of Trump threatening to penalize countries for supporting Russia’s economy amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. In a recent interview with CNBC’s Squawk Box, Trump stated, “India is buying Russian oil… they’re fueling the war machine—and if they’re going to do that, then I’m not going to be happy.”

India has pushed back strongly against the criticism. In a statement issued Monday, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the country was being “targeted” for decisions driven by national interest, while Western nations continue their own trade with Russia.

The tariff hike threatens to strain the strategic and economic ties between the U.S. and India, which until recently were on an upward trajectory. With bilateral trade exceeding $190 billion in 2024, the sudden policy shift could impact key sectors, including pharmaceuticals, technology, and textiles.

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