The North News
New Delhi, August 7
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warned that he is prepared to face “personal consequences” to defend the interests of the country’s farmers, amid a deepening trade rift with the United States. Speaking on Thursday, a day after Washington announced a 25% additional hike in tariffs on certain Indian goods — bringing the total duty to 50% in some cases — Modi said “Our farmers are our priority. We will never compromise on this. I know I will have to face personal consequences because of it.”
India responded with a sharp rebuke to the US move, describing the new tariffs as “unfair” and “unjustified.” In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday accused the Biden administration of acting unilaterally and undermining international trade norms.
The tariffs come on the heels of increasing American pressure on India to curtail its oil imports from Russia — a trade the Indian government insists is vital for its energy security.
“We have already made clear our position on these issues, including the fact that our imports are based on market factors,” the MEA said. “It is extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest.”
The MEA warned that India “will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests,” a possible hint at retaliatory measures.
