India Unites After Trump’s 25% Tariff
Trump’s 25% tariff on Indian exports has sparked a trade clash, prompting PM Modi to urge Indians to support local products under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
In a major global trade development, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a steep 25% tariff on all Indian exports to the U.S., effective from 1 August 2025. This move followed failed trade negotiations where the U.S. sought greater access to Indian markets, especially in the dairy and agriculture sectors India fiercely protects due to their importance to nearly half its population.
Let’s break down how this began, why it happened, and what Prime Minister Narendra Modi is asking Indians to do now.
ISH News had shared about the dairy battle between India and the US Amul vs America – A Dairy Battle Begins | ISH News
The tariff is expected to severely impact Indian exporters, particularly small businesses, as the U.S. is India’s largest trading partner. A 25% tariff means Indian products like textiles, leather, jewelry, and spices become costlier in the U.S. For example, a leather jacket priced at ?8,000 (or $100) now costs $125 post-tariff, making Indian goods less competitive in terms of prices.
Meanwhile, India imports vital goods from the U.S., such as crude oil, electronics, medical equipment, and almonds. These imports are taxed based on necessity low tax for essentials like oil and aircraft, and a high tax for luxury items like cars and almonds.
Reacting to the sudden blow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to support local businesses by choosing Indian-made goods. He reinforced his “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) vision, calling this a moment for unity and economic patriotism.
The situation reminds us that global politics can shift swiftly, but collective domestic support can keep a nation resilient. As India faces this trade challenge, Modi’s call encourages every citizen to stand by Indian products and strengthen the economy from within, turning crisis into opportunity.
