Trump Slaps 25% Tariff on India: Weibo Users See Delhi Caught Between Global Powers

Many users believe that India lacks leverage in international affairs, suggesting it is "in no position to play its own hand, only to be played by others." This sentiment is echoed by observations that India hasn't paid "protection fees" like Japan and the EU, leading to a higher tariff imposition.

Trump's stated reasons for the tariffs - high Indian tariffs, severe trade barriers, and India's continued purchase of military equipment and energy from Russia - have also drawn attention. Some comments sarcastically compare India's situation to other US allies, noting that while Japan and the EU pay significantly for protection, they still face tariffs, implying India's situation is worse without such an arrangement.

Critiques are also directed at India's foreign policy, with one user calling the "trade prevented India-Pakistan nuclear war" narrative a joke, suggesting that the US is manipulating geopolitical situations for its own benefit. The overall sentiment is one of a more assertive US taking a firm stance against India's trade practices and its ties with Russia, with many users perceiving India as being caught between global powers and facing economic pressure as a result.

The impact of the 25% tariff on India is multifaceted. In terms of industry, India's exports are expected to be severely hit, with around 10% of exports affected between July and September, including electronics, gems, and jewelry. This could lead to a decrease in orders, production, and even layoffs.

The tariff level of 25% is significantly higher than the recent agreements reached with other major trading partners such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, and the EU. This makes Indian goods less competitive in the US market, potentially leading to a loss of market share.

Some multinational companies may consider adjusting their global supply chains to mitigate the higher tariff costs, further damaging India's manufacturing sector and exports.

In response, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) has suggested that India needs to normalize its tariff policy and negotiate with trade partners to address the tariff barriers.

The social impact of the tariff is also a concern, with potential job losses and increased consumer costs. The long-term effect on India's economic growth and living standards is also uncertain.

The political implications of the tariff are significant, with the US-India trade relationship likely to deteriorate further. Trump's decision marks a breakdown in trade negotiations between the two countries, which may weaken India's position as a strategic partner for the US in countering China.

The move also reflects the Trump administration's protectionist trade policies, which may encourage other countries to follow suit, exacerbating global trade tensions and potentially leading to a decline in the global trade system and the rise of bilateral agreements.

In terms of geopolitical implications, the tariff can be seen as a means for the US to exert pressure on India's foreign policy and strategic choices, particularly in its relations with Russia.

The Indian government faces increased domestic pressure to address the economic challenges and trade disputes, and to protect national interests and public welfare.

The timeline of events leading up to the tariff announcement began in March 2018 with broader trade investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act. By May 2025, analyses projected significant impacts on US companies like Apple if such tariffs were imposed on imports from India and China.

High-stakes trade negotiations between the US and India were ongoing, with reports in July 2025 indicating that Trump had discussed a 20-25% tariff with India. India's trade team extended their stay in Washington to address disagreements, aiming to reach an agreement before the July 9th deadline for higher tariffs.

Trump announced the 25% tariff on India on July 30, citing high Indian tariffs, severe trade barriers, and India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The move was not unexpected, given Trump's previous criticism of India's high tariffs, calling it the "tariff king."

The Indian government has stated that it is studying the impact of Trump's tariff announcement, despite Trump's claim that India is a "friend." The trade deficit, high tariffs, and non-tariff barriers were cited as the main reasons for the tariff imposition.

The 25% tariff exceeds the rates imposed on other countries such as Vietnam (20%), Indonesia (19%), and Japan (15%), putting India at a disadvantage in trade competition.