New Delhi vs. Washington is heating up again — not in diplomacy, but in trade war mode.
In a bold move, India is considering slapping retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, after the United States outright rejected India’s WTO notification seeking resolution over the controversial Trump-era steel and aluminum tariffs.
The Flashpoint: Trump’s 2018 Tariffs
Back in 2018, former U.S. President Donald Trump slapped heavy import duties — 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum — citing “national security.” India, one of the affected countries, took the issue to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and has been fighting ever since.
Fast forward to 2025 — and the U.S. just said NO DEAL to India’s latest WTO notice.
“India has no legal basis to impose retaliatory duties,” said the U.S. at the WTO, brushing off New Delhi’s concerns like yesterday’s news.
🇮🇳 India’s Counterpunch Incoming?
According to leaked WTO documents and trade ministry insiders, India is preparing a list of U.S. products that could soon face counter-duties — including high-end electronics, agricultural products, and even luxury goods.
A senior Indian official reportedly told Bharat Global Time:
“If diplomacy is being ignored, India has every right to protect its trade interests. The retaliatory duties are a message: Don’t mistake our patience for weakness.”
Why This Matters:
- Indian exporters have lost billions due to restricted access to the U.S. market.
- The U.S. court recently ruled some Trump-era tariffs unlawful — further weakening Washington’s moral ground.
- India–U.S. FTA talks are on thin ice, with New Delhi growing wary of one-sided pressure tactics.
Global Echoes
While India is busy building global coalitions through G20 leadership, climate cooperation, and strategic tech deals, the U.S. seems stuck defending outdated trade wars from the Trump playbook.
What’s At Stake for You?
If the tariffs roll out:
- Imported U.S. goods could get pricier in Indian markets.
- Indian tech & pharma exports might face fresh heat if tensions escalate.
- The much-hyped India–U.S. trade pact? Might be shelved — again.
Final Word:
This isn’t just trade drama — it’s a geopolitical chess game. India’s next move could redefine its economic assertiveness on the world stage. Watch this space.
