Trump Hopeful on Positive Outcome in US-India Tariff Talks

(The Post News)– President Donald Trump expressed optimism over the ongoing trade discussions between the United States and India, particularly concerning tariffs. He spoke during the swearing-in ceremony of U.S. attorney for New Jersey, Alina Habba, and said that he expects the tariff negotiations to “work out well” for both nations.

Trump added that he believes the relationship between India and the U.S. would be excellent, emphasising his strong relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He further described Modi as an extremely intelligent man and a “great friend” adding that their discussions have been productive.

Earlier this week, Trump made a significant announcement from the Oval Office regarding U.S. trade policy, declaring a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles entering the United States, which is set to take effect on April 2. The tariffs are expected to impact a wide range of vehicles, including American brands produced overseas, and are intended to encourage domestic manufacturing within the U.S.

While reflecting on the broader trade relationship between the two nations, Trump noted that India is one of the highest tariff-imposing countries globally. “India charges us auto tariffs higher than 100 per cent,” he remarked, following statements where he highlighted India’s trade practices, which he described as challenging for U.S. businesses.

The car tax announcement is a component of Trump’s larger campaign to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on nations such as China and India. Under this approach, foreign goods would be subject to tariffs equal to those that those nations impose on U.S. exports. Trump first made this point in February, saying the U.S. had been “ripped off for decades” by foreign trade practices. He noted that such tariffs had been in the works before the COVID-19 pandemic delayed their implementation.

In previous remarks, Trump also criticized the European Union, China, Brazil, and Mexico for what he perceived as unfair tariffs on American goods. The reciprocal tariffs are part of Trump’s broader goal of levelling the playing field in international trade.