Congress MP and former international diplomat Shashi Tharoor has raised concerns over what he described as a possible “underlying message” in the United States’ recent decision to sharply raise tariffs on Indian imports, particularly in light of India’s energy trade with Russia. In contrast, China, which imports even more oil from Russia, has been given more favorable treatment, he noted.
“China is buying nearly twice the amount of Russian oil compared to us, yet they’ve been granted 90 days. India has only been given three weeks,” Tharoor said. The first round of a 25 percent tariff took effect on Thursday, with the rate expected to rise to 50 percent later in the month.
Speaking to the press in Hindi outside Parliament, Tharoor suggested that India should consider mirroring the US action if there is no change in policy after the three-week window. “The United States mentioned ‘reciprocity,’ but India doesn’t operate through threats. We should observe the situation and be prepared to act if necessary.”
He argued that India’s average tariff on US imports stands at about 17 percent, raising questions about whether the current US measures truly reflect a reciprocal approach. “It seems there may be another motive behind Washington’s move. The Indian government should analyze the intent behind these decisions and respond wisely.”
Tharoor also appealed to the Indian diaspora in America to engage with US leadership and push for a balanced and fair approach. He pointed to Nikki Haley’s recent statement urging former President Trump to prioritize India over China as an example of the kind of advocacy needed.
Acknowledging the economic implications of the tariffs, Tharoor said that Indian exports to the US, valued at around 90 billion dollars, will inevitably take a hit if costs rise. “A 50 percent hike would make Indian products far less competitive. If countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, or China offer similar goods at cheaper prices, we could lose out,” he warned.
