PM Modi Responds Firmly to Trump Administration’s Tariff Hike Amid Global Economic Pressures
As the United States moves to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured the nation that India will withstand external economic pressure and continue to strengthen its economic resilience.
The new punitive tariffs, set to take effect at 12:01 AM EST on August 27, 2025, were formally announced by the US Department of Homeland Security, citing policy measures linked to Russia-related threats and India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil.
Trump’s Tariff Decision: India Caught in Crossfire
- The Donald Trump administration has increased tariffs on Indian goods to a total of 50%, including the new 25% hike.
- The notice reads: “The duties… are effective with respect to products of India… entered for consumption… on or after 12:01 am EDT, August 27, 2025.”
- The move links India’s energy trade with Russia to new U.S. trade penalties, despite India’s neutral geopolitical stance.
PM Modi’s Response: “We Will Withstand Any Pressure”
Speaking at a rally in Ahmedabad’s Nikol area on August 26, PM Modi addressed the economic challenge directly:
“No matter how much pressure comes, we will keep increasing our strength to withstand it.”
He emphasized:
- Support for small entrepreneurs, farmers, and livestock rearers
- The government’s commitment to protect local industries from external shocks
- A subtle criticism of global economic self-interest politics
“Aaj duniya me arthik swarth wali rajniti hai… sab apna karne me lage hain. Hum bhali bhanti dekh rahe hain.”
(Today, there’s politics of economic self-interest worldwide. Everyone is acting in their own interest. We are watching this clearly.)
India’s Key Economic Message: Prioritizing Domestic Strength
PM Modi reinforced his government’s long-term vision:
- Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) remains a central strategy
- Focus remains on local manufacturing, MSME growth, and energy security
- India aims to absorb global economic shocks through internal capacity-building
“From the soil of Ahmedabad, I promise you that the interests of small entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, farmers, and livestock rearers will always be protected.”
India Stands Firm Amid Global Trade Pressures
With the US set to enforce steep tariffs, India is taking a measured yet firm approach. PM Modi’s message of economic resilience and national strength indicates that the country will continue to prioritize its domestic interests while managing global diplomatic and trade challenges.
