Just hours after announcing an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian imports, US President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of further “secondary sanctions” being imposed in the coming days, potentially expanding the scope of punitive economic measures to other countries, including China.
During a press briefing at the White House on Wednesday, Trump responded to questions about why India was being singled out for sanctions despite other countries, like China, also purchasing oil from Russia.
“It’s only been eight hours. So let’s see what happens,” Trump said. “You’re going to see a lot more… you’re going to see so much secondary sanctions.”
When pressed further about whether similar tariffs could be imposed on China, the US President replied, “Could happen. Depends on how we do. Could happen.”
Earlier the same day, Trump signed an Executive Order levying an additional 25 percent duty on all imports from India. The order cited national security and foreign policy concerns, stating that India’s continued import of Russian oil — whether directly or indirectly — poses an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the United States.
With this new directive, the total tariff on Indian goods entering the US rises to 50 percent. The base tariff takes effect immediately from August 7, while the additional levy will be enforced 21 days later. Goods already in transit or meeting specific exemption criteria will not be affected. The order also leaves room for future revisions based on developments in India-Russia trade or potential retaliatory actions.
India responded swiftly and firmly. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the US decision, calling it “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” and reiterated that India’s energy purchases are guided purely by national interest and market dynamics.
In a strongly worded statement, the MEA said, “The United States has in recent days targeted India’s oil imports from Russia. We have already made clear our position on these issues, including the fact that our imports are based on market factors and done with the overall objective of ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion people of India.”
“It is therefore extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest,” the statement added.
India stressed that it will take “all actions necessary” to safeguard its national interests in light of these new measures.
The escalation marks a sharp turn in US-India trade relations and signals possible turbulence ahead in global economic diplomacy, as the Biden administration appears ready to expand its pressure campaign on nations engaging with Russia.