NEW DELHI: The United States has formally notified India of additional tariffs set to take effect from August 27, citing national security concerns linked to Russia.
The Department of Homeland Security issued the notice on Tuesday, stating the measures were in response to “threats to the United States by the government of the Russian Federation.” The move places India among the countries targeted for new duties under Washington’s broader sanctions policy.
According to the notification, the tariffs will apply to a wide range of Indian products listed in an annex and will cover any goods “entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption” after 12:01 a.m. EDT on August 27, 2025.
The document further noted that the duties were tied to Executive Order 14066, which barred imports of Russian-origin crude oil, petroleum, and related products to counter “an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.”
Modi’s Counter-Message
The announcement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a rally in Ahmedabad, pledged unwavering support for small entrepreneurs and farmers as the new 50% US tariff regime on Indian goods looms.
“From this land of Gandhi, I assure my small entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, farmers, and animal keepers that your interests remain paramount,” Modi said. “No matter how much pressure comes, my government will not allow harm to your livelihoods. The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan draws strength from decades of hard work here in Gujarat, and we will keep building that resilience.”
Growing Strains in Ties
Washington has accused India of indirectly financing Moscow’s war in Ukraine by continuing to import discounted Russian crude—an allegation New Delhi has repeatedly rejected. India began ramping up purchases after Western sanctions on Moscow followed its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The tariff hike—raising duties on Indian goods to 50%, with an additional 25% penalty linked to Russian oil imports—has sharpened tensions between the two capitals.
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking in Delhi over the weekend, dismissed Washington’s criticism with biting remarks.
“It’s ironic for a pro-business American administration to accuse others of doing business,” he said. “If you don’t like Indian oil or refined products, don’t buy them. Nobody is forcing you. But Europe buys, America buys. So if you have a problem, just stop buying.”
