In a recent address to Congress, President Donald Trump declared that the United States will implement reciprocal tariffs on nations imposing high duties on American goods, with the measures taking effect on April 2. Specifically highlighting India, Trump criticized the country's substantial tariffs on US products, stating, "India charges us auto tariffs higher than 100 percent."

The President emphasized that these reciprocal tariffs aim to counteract what he perceives as unfair trade practices by countries such as India, China, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, and the European Union. He noted that these nations impose significantly higher tariffs on US exports compared to what the US charges them. Trump remarked, "It's very unfair," underscoring the necessity of the new tariff policy.

This policy shift follows recent US decisions to enforce a 25 percent tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico and to double tariffs on Chinese goods from 10 percent to 20 percent, citing inadequate action from China regarding its alleged role in fentanyl production.

The announcement has raised concerns about potential trade tensions and their impact on global economic relations. Observers are closely monitoring how affected nations will respond to these measures.