BS EDIT: US Tariffs Test India’s Trade Strategy

By Business StandardPublished On Aug 28, 2025

India faces a 50 per cent tariff on nearly two-thirds of exports to the US, hitting labour-intensive sectors hard

Gems, textiles, handicrafts, agri-products will struggle as higher tariffs make Indian exports uncompetitive globally

India must maintain dialogue with the US. Engagement is crucial to avoid becoming collateral damage in geopolitical disputes

Diversifying trade and completing negotiations with the European Union and other partners is now critical for exporters

Competitiveness is key. Next-generation reforms and ease-of-doing-business improvements cannot be delayed

India’s focus must be threefold: sustain US engagement, diversify markets, and strengthen domestic competitiveness for growth