US to Cut India Tariffs, Trump Highlights Strong Ties
US President Donald Trump said on Monday that “very high” tariffs on India will be reduced “at some point,” while praising India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirming the “fantastic” relationship between the two countries. The remarks came during the swearing-in of Sergio Gor as the U.S. Ambassador to India.
Tariff Outlook
Trump said the tariffs on Indian goods had been hiked because of India’s continued imports of Russian oil, but he expects that once conditions are met, those duty levels will be rolled back. India faces import duties of up to 50 % under the U.S. for certain goods — among the highest for any trading partner.
Strategic Relationship
At the ceremony, President Trump described the India-U.S. relationship as “most important,” and said that the appointment of Sergio Gor underscores the significance. He noted that the two nations are key partners in the Indo-Pacific, and highlighted cooperation in trade, energy, and security.
Next Steps
While no formal timetable was given for the tariff reduction, the statement signals renewed momentum in trade talks. Observers say that easing tariffs will hinge on India addressing U.S. concerns over energy sourcing, market access and reciprocal trade. The Indian side has yet to comment publicly on exact benchmarks for the reduction.
