White House Criticizes India’s High Tariffs on American Goods
The White House has criticized India’s high tariffs on American products, highlighting a 150% duty on alcohol and a 100% tariff on agricultural goods. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that such steep tariffs hinder U.S. exports, particularly affecting industries like Kentucky bourbon.
In response to escalating trade tensions, India recently reduced tariffs on bourbon whiskey from 150% to 100%. This move followed President Donald Trump’s criticism of India’s high levies on American goods.
President Trump has labeled India as the “tariff king,” pointing out that its average tariffs are significantly higher compared to countries like China and Canada. In an effort to strengthen ties with the U.S. and avoid reciprocal tariffs, India has reduced duties on certain products, including smartphone components and electric-vehicle batteries.
Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently traveled to the U.S. to discuss these trade issues, aiming to prevent the imposition of reciprocal tariffs that could adversely affect Indian exports.
The ongoing trade discussions underscore the complexities of U.S.-India economic relations, as both nations seek to balance domestic interests with the benefits of bilateral trade.
