Wed Apr 02 08:32:00 UTC 2025: ## Trump Administration to Unveil Reciprocal Tariffs; India Awaits Impact

**New Delhi, April 2, 2025** – The White House is poised to announce a new plan of “reciprocal tariffs” tonight at 4 p.m. EST (1:30 a.m. IST Thursday), a move touted by President Donald Trump to counter what he calls unfair trade practices by other nations. While details remain scarce, the plan is expected to target several countries, including India, which is already bracing for potential consequences.

The announcement, to be made at a “Make America Wealthy Again” event, comes amidst ongoing negotiations for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between India and the U.S. India, hoping for preferential treatment following Prime Minister Modi’s February visit to Washington, reported “broad understanding” on next steps for the BTA in late March. However, the U.S. has publicly identified India as a major trade concern, citing high tariffs (17% in 2023, according to WTO figures) and a significant trade deficit ($45.7 billion) in India’s favor.

A recent USTR report highlighted India’s 100% tariff on American agricultural products as a key point of contention. While India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar acknowledged farmer concerns about potential tariffs, he expressed confidence in negotiators to secure the best possible deal.

The international community is watching India’s response closely. Past retaliatory measures by India to similar U.S. actions have been muted, unlike the strong responses from China, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union. Whether India will adopt a different approach this time remains to be seen. The impact of these new tariffs on the already complex U.S.-India trade relationship will be significant and keenly observed globally.

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