What Are Tariffs and How Trump’s 50% Tariff Affects India

What Is a Tariff?

A tariff is a tax imposed by one country on goods imported from another. Governments use tariffs to:

  • Protect local industries
  • Encourage domestic production
  • Raise revenue
  • Gain leverage in trade negotiations

Trump’s 50% Tariff on India

In August 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on Indian exports.

This tariff includes:

  • 25% reciprocal duty (to match India’s tariffs on U.S. goods)
  • 25% penalty (linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil)

Goods most affected:

  • Textiles & Garments
  • Gems & Jewellery
  • Seafood (shrimp, fish)
  • Leather & Carpets
  • Furniture & Footwear

Goods exempted:

  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Electronics
  • Steel and some machinery