Trump Announces Reciprocal Tariffs Against India Effective April 2

In a Congressional address, President Trump announced that the U.S. would impose reciprocal tariffs against countries with high tariff rates, particularly India. Effective April 2, the tariffs aim to counteract what he described as unfair trade practices. He emphasized the need for the U.S. to respond to excessive tariffs from other nations and garnered enthusiastic support from his Congressional colleagues.

During a recent address to Congress, President Trump articulated his stance on tariff policy, emphasizing the imposition of high duties by various nations, notably India. He asserted that the United States is subjected to excessive tariffs from countries worldwide, and highlighted his administration’s intent to implement reciprocal tariffs against those nations, effective April 2.

In his speech, President Trump expressed that any products not manufactured in America would incur significant tariffs under his leadership. He stated, “Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades and now it’s our turn to start using them against those other countries.” He condemned the tariffs imposed by countries like India, claiming it to be unfair.

Trump specifically pointed out that India imposes auto tariffs higher than 100 percent, and compared this with tariffs from other countries. He remarked, “China’s average tariff on our products is twice what we charge them and South Korea’s average tariff is four times higher.” He underscored the necessity for America to respond robustly to these international trade practices.

In his outline for future trade relations, the President stated, “On April 2nd … whatever they tariff us, we will tariff them, a reciprocal back and forth.” He indicated that if foreign nations employed non-monetary tariffs to obstruct U.S. market access, the United States would reciprocate in kind. This announcement was met with enthusiastic approval from his supporters in Congress.

This announcement followed the U.S. decision to raise tariffs on neighboring countries, specifically Canada and Mexico, to 25 percent, alongside an increase in tariffs on Chinese goods. These measures were justified by the administration due to perceived inadequate responses from China regarding its role in fentanyl production.

In conclusion, President Trump’s address to Congress conveyed a strong commitment to implementing reciprocal tariffs, specifically targeting nations that impose high tariffs on American goods, with India being a focal point. His administration’s approach aims to recalibrate trade relations by imposing similar tariffs, thereby promoting fairer economic engagements. The response from Congress underscores a significant backing of his strategies.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com