New Delhi: Amid swirling uncertainties over US President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has reassured a key parliamentary committee that recent changes in American tariffs do not pose an immediate threat to India’s interests.
Addressing the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs — chaired by Shashi Tharoor — on Monday, Misri stated that “changes in American tariffs are not an immediate cause for concern for India”. He emphasised that India formulates its trade agreements through “detailed and in-depth discussions keeping national interests in mind.”
The assurance comes against the backdrop of recent turbulence in global trade. Following a US Supreme Court ruling that struck down certain broad tariffs imposed by Trump under emergency powers as exceeding presidential authority, the administration swiftly invoked Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act to impose a temporary 15% global tariff — the maximum allowed under this provision for about five months — on imports from all countries, including India.
This follows an earlier interim trade framework between India and the US, announced in early February, which set reciprocal tariffs at 18% for specified goods and aimed at balanced trade, including India’s commitments to reduce duties on US products like agricultural items and industrial goods.
Misri highlighted that the United States views India as a “major democracy with long-standing relations” and one of its “reliable partners” in Washington. He stressed that bilateral trade decisions prioritise national priorities, providing stability amid Trump’s fluctuating pronouncements.
Opposition members raised concerns about potential disruptions to Indian exports in sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and leather. However, Misri’s briefing sought to allay fears, underscoring India’s strategic positioning and the temporary nature of the latest US measures.
As trade talks face delays and global partners reassess positions, India’s calm diplomatic stance signals confidence in safeguarding economic ties with its key ally.