Guwahati: Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha, seeking an urgent discussion on the United States’ decision to impose retaliatory tariffs on Indian exports.
This move comes after US President Donald Trump announced a 26% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods, citing high import duties and restrictive trade policies by India.
Gogoi stressed the need to address the economic impact of these tariffs, cautioning that key price-sensitive industries such as textiles, jewelry, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals would suffer significantly. He argued that despite multiple trade negotiations, a resolution remains elusive, and the government must act swiftly to protect Indian exporters and workers.
Highlighting the disparity in tariff structures, Gogoi noted that India’s reciprocal tariffs are significantly higher than those imposed by China, Japan, and South Korea. This, he argued, places Indian exporters at a disadvantage compared to competitors from the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Gogoi warned that the tariff hike could deter foreign investment, slow technological advancements, and prompt US businesses to shift operations to countries like Vietnam and Indonesia. He urged the government to clarify its strategy to mitigate these challenges and safeguard India’s trade interests.
President Trump defended the tariffs as a necessary response to India’s unfair trade practices, including a 70% duty on motorcycles and other protectionist policies. He also accused India of currency manipulation, further escalating trade tensions between the two nations.
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