The United States has once again raised concerns over India’s tariffs on American exports, particularly alcohol and agricultural products. During a press briefing on Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized multiple countries for imposing steep tariffs on U.S. goods, specifically mentioning India, Canada, and Japan.
Leavitt presented a chart comparing tariff rates imposed by these nations. India’s duties were marked with two circles in the tri-colour, emphasizing its 150% tariff on American alcohol and 100% on agricultural imports. She argued that such high taxes make it difficult for American industries to compete, citing Kentucky bourbon as an example.
“Canada has been exploiting American workers for years,” Leavitt stated, as reported by PTI. She went on to criticize Canada’s 300% tariff on American cheese and butter, while also pointing out Japan’s 700% tariff on rice.
Expressing former President Donald Trump’s stance, she reiterated his commitment to ensuring fair trade policies. “President Trump believes in reciprocity. He is determined to secure balanced trade practices that protect American businesses,” she asserted.
Trump has repeatedly voiced his displeasure over India’s trade policies. Last Friday, he claimed that India had agreed to significantly lower its tariffs. However, Indian Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal clarified on Monday that trade negotiations were still in progress and no formal agreement had been reached.
Barthwal briefed the Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs, refuting Trump’s statement and emphasizing that discussions with the U.S. regarding tariff reductions remain ongoing.
