India Strives to Soften the Blow of Trump’s 50% Tariffs

As the clock ticks towards midnight, a heavy blow is set to fall on Indian exporters—courtesy of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a sweeping 50% tariff on Indian goods. But India isn’t sitting still. In a heartfelt and measured response, former Foreign Secretary and current Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla offered a glimpse of the nation’s strategic resolve to minimize the fallout and keep the Indian export engine running.

Speaking at a community event in Virginia, Shringla acknowledged the real pain these tariffs could cause, especially to labour-intensive industries such as agriculture, seafood, textiles, and handicrafts—industries that employ millions of hardworking Indians. “From midnight tonight, we will be at the receiving end of 50 per cent customs duties for goods exported into the United States,” he said. “We are working on minimising the impact.”

And the plan? Diversification. Shringla emphasized that India is actively building bridges to other markets. “We have Free Trade Agreements with Australia, the UAE, and the UK, and are close to finalizing one with the European Union. These agreements give us new avenues to redirect our exports and support our producers back home.”

Even in the face of such economic turbulence, Shringla remained hopeful. He underlined the enduring strength of India-U.S. ties, calling them the “most comprehensive, multi-faceted relationship we have with any country.”

He also praised the appointment of Sergio Gor as India’s Ambassador, calling it a sign of continued diplomatic goodwill. “Hopefully, we will find a way to conclude a satisfactory, mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement with the United States sooner rather than later,” he added.

Shringla’s optimism, he noted, stems not only from policies but from personal relationships. He recalled the camaraderie between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reminding the audience of the “Howdy Modi” and “Namaste Trump” events that once symbolized the warmth between the two leaders.

But the reality on the ground is sobering. These new tariffs are expected to impact nearly two-thirds of India’s goods trade with the U.S., with sectors like textiles, gems and jewellery, electronics, chemicals, seafood, and furniture among the hardest hit.

As India pivots and adapts, the road ahead will demand resilience, strategy, and above all, unity—from policymakers, businesses, and citizens alike.