'Will not bow down'; India stands firm against Trump’s tariff threat

NEW DELHI: India has firmly declared that it will not back down in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump's 50% import tariff hike. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made it clear on Thursday that the interests of the country’s farmers and fishermen will not be sacrificed under any circumstances.

Modi added that instead of seeing this situation as a setback, India will treat it as an opportunity to strengthen the economy. Diplomatic efforts will also be intensified. Trump recently announced strict actions over India’s continued oil imports from Russia.

Modi made these remarks in a challenging economic context, which experts say could hurt the agricultural sector. He was addressing the M.S. Swaminathan centenary conference. Modi stressed that even if we don’t know exactly who will have to pay the price, India is ready to face threats boldly.

Experts: Turn the crisis into an opportunity

1. Experts, including former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, believe the crisis can be turned into an opportunity.
2. Tariffs are likely to impact sectors like textiles, jewellery, and auto parts.
3. Economic reforms and changes in the tax system may be necessary.
4. More support should be given to domestic products.
5. India should focus not just on exports but also boost domestic trade.

Modi-Putin-Xi Jinping meeting likely

Trump may increase pressure tactics with further tariff threats. In response, India is planning stronger diplomatic moves. Prime Minister Modi is set to visit China on the 31st to attend the Shanghai Summit, where Russian President Putin is also expected to be present.

In the current global scenario, a meeting between Modi, Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping could be significant. Reports also suggest that Trump and Putin may soon meet to discuss ending the Ukraine war. After the upcoming meeting in Russia, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval hinted that Putin is expected to visit India later this year.

Brazilian President Lula da Silva spoke with Prime Minister Modi over the phone yesterday. Trump’s tariff announcement was a key topic in their conversation.

The U.S. has given India 21 days before implementing the proposed tariff. If Trump does not change his stance within that time, India may also impose a 50% tariff on imports from the U.S.

— Shashi Tharoor,

Congress Leader