“It’s Next to Impossible to Sell Anything to India,” Says Trump Amidst Trade Dispute
White House Calls Out India’s Tariffs, Trump Warns of ‘Higher’ Trade Barriers
Washington, DC [US], March 12 – US President Donald Trump and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have doubled down on criticism of India’s high tariffs on American products, calling for “fair and balanced” trade practices.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Leavitt specifically highlighted India’s 150% tariff on American alcohol and a 100% tariff on U.S. agricultural products, questioning how such barriers benefit American exporters.
“Do you think that's helping Kentucky bourbon be exported into India? I don’t think so,” she remarked, holding up a trade comparison chart.
The Press Secretary also criticized Canada and Japan for imposing high tariffs on U.S. goods, singling out Canada's 300% tariff on American cheese and butter and Japan’s staggering 700% tariff on rice.
“President Trump believes in reciprocity, and it’s about time we have a leader who looks out for American businesses and workers,” Leavitt added.
Trump Warns of Higher Tariffs, Targets India’s Trade Policies
Echoing Leavitt’s remarks, Trump reiterated his stance on global tariffs, accusing countries of “ripping off” the United States for years.
“For years, globalists have been taking money away from America. We’re just getting some of it back, and we’re going to treat our country fairly,” Trump declared.
He also took a direct swipe at India’s trade policies, saying “It’s next to impossible to sell anything in India.”
However, in a notable shift, Trump claimed that India had agreed to “cut their tariffs way down” after coming under pressure from his administration.
“India charges us massive tariffs. Massive. You can’t even sell anything there… But they have agreed, by the way. They want to cut their tariffs way down now because somebody is finally exposing them for what they have done,” he asserted.
Rising Tensions in Global Trade
Trump’s remarks come amid broader U.S. trade tensions with multiple nations, including Mexico, Canada, and China. The administration recently imposed new tariffs on these countries, citing concerns over border control and national security.
Last week, Trump delayed certain tariffs on Canada and Mexico, ahead of what he called the “big one” set to take effect on April 2. He described Canada as a “high tariff nation” and signaled that further action could be taken if trade barriers remain unchanged.
With India now firmly in Trump’s crosshairs, the next few months will determine whether these trade tensions escalate or if negotiations lead to a significant tariff reduction.
Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Sandeep
