President Trump announced significant tariffs affecting nearly all countries, specifically a 26 percent reciprocal tariff on India. He labeled India’s trade practices as tough, noting the high tariffs imposed by India. Trump declared April 2, 2025, as a historic day for the U.S. economy and emphasized the need for fair trade practices across nations.
On a recent occasion, President Donald Trump introduced a series of tariffs impacting nearly every nation. Notably, he announced a 26 percent reciprocal tariff directed at India during his speech at the White House event titled “Make America Wealthy Again.” While underscoring that current U.S. tariffs are not entirely reciprocal, he characterized India’s trade practices as “very, very tough.” Trump noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is his friend, but stressed, “You are not treating us right.”
President Trump emphasized that the tariffs India imposes are significantly higher—52 percent—on U.S. goods, whereas historically, the U.S. has charged minimal rates. He argued that for decades, the U.S. has offered lenient trade terms until the onset of his administration seven years ago. Further clarifying the impact, the White House indicated that Trump’s tariffs would come into effect on April 9, affecting around 60 countries, with a baseline of 10 percent on all imports starting Saturday.
During this event, Trump proclaimed April 2, 2025, as “Liberation Day,” marking it as a pivotal moment for American industry. He proclaimed, “This is Liberation Day, a long-awaited moment,” stating it marks a rejuvenation of American economy. Furthermore, the President discussed disparities in motorcycle tariffs, stating the U.S. levies just a 2.4 percent tariff, while some countries impose significantly higher rates like India’s 70 percent and Vietnam’s 75 percent.
Trump’s administration has previously imposed substantial tariffs on imports from China and other countries, including 20 percent duties on Chinese goods and 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum, expanding to a range of downstream products valued at nearly $150 billion.
In summary, President Trump has initiated a series of tariffs affecting numerous countries, notably instituting a 26 percent reciprocal tariff on India, which he described as a tough trading partner. He emphasized the imbalance in tariff rates, particularly concerning motorcycles, and declared April 2, 2025, as a crucial day for American industry. His administration continues to pursue aggressive trade policies aimed at rectifying perceived imbalances.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
