US President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could quickly raise tariffs on India if New Delhi fails to curb its purchases of Russian oil.
Speaking aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump acknowledged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a good guy” but emphasized that it was important for India to address US concerns. “They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly,” Trump said in response to questions regarding India’s Russian oil imports.
The U.S. had already doubled import tariffs on Indian goods to 50 percent last year in response to India’s continued procurement of Russian crude. Despite the steep tariffs, India’s exports to the United States surged in November, reflecting the resilience of bilateral trade.
Encouraged by these figures, Indian officials have maintained a firm stance, signaling limited flexibility on trade issues such as agricultural imports, even as data indicate a gradual decline in Russian oil purchases.
Indian authorities are reportedly asking refiners for weekly disclosure of both Russian and U.S. oil purchases, with expectations that imports of Russian crude could fall below 1 million barrels per day as New Delhi seeks a trade deal with Washington. While Modi has spoken with Trump at least three times since the imposition of tariffs, discussions remain inconclusive.
In December, India’s Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal met U.S. Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer in Delhi to discuss bilateral trade and economic ties. The meetings aimed to find common ground on trade issues while balancing India’s energy needs and ongoing U.S. concerns regarding Russian oil purchases.
Analysts note that while tariffs remain a pressure point, both sides appear motivated to sustain dialogue and explore potential compromises, particularly in light of India’s growing global economic role and the strategic importance of energy security.
