A bipartisan coalition of US lawmakers has penned a letter to President Donald Trump, calling for urgent action to mend the increasingly strained relationship with India. The missive highlights that recent tariff escalations, particularly a substantial increase on Indian imports, are jeopardizing vital trade partnerships, inflating consumer prices, and weakening strategic alliances between the two leading democracies. The representatives warn that continued trade disputes could have detrimental consequences for both the United States and India.
The core of the concern lies in the Trump administration’s decision in late August 2025 to implement steep tariffs on Indian goods, reaching up to 50 percent. This included an initial 25 percent “reciprocal” duty, swiftly followed by an additional 25 percent levy. The latter was reportedly a response to India’s ongoing energy trade with Russia. Lawmakers assert these measures have not only impacted Indian manufacturers but have also driven up costs for American consumers, disrupting supply chains critical to US businesses.
Beyond the economic fallout, the letter emphasizes India’s crucial geopolitical role. The lawmakers caution that protracted trade tensions could inadvertently push New Delhi towards adversaries like China and Russia, a stark contrast to India’s position as a stabilizing force in the Indo-Pacific. They underscore India’s importance as a defense cooperation partner, highlighting its participation in the Quad alliance alongside the US, Japan, and Australia. The shared democratic values between the two nations are presented as a significant differentiator from authoritarian competitors, making a balanced partnership essential for advancing mutual economic and democratic objectives.
The congressional group is advocating for a strategic recalibration rather than confrontation. They urge President Trump to publicly reaffirm America’s commitment to India and initiate a comprehensive review of the current tariff policies. Renewed diplomatic engagement with Indian leadership is proposed as a means to rebuild mutual trust and strengthen bilateral ties. Prominent signatories include Representatives Deborah K Ross, Ro Khanna, Brad Sherman, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Pramila Jayapal, and Frank Pallone Jr., many of whom represent constituencies with large Indian-American populations and have historically championed robust US-India relations. This appeal reflects mounting apprehension in Washington that the recent tariff hikes could erode years of progress in Indo-Pacific strategy and security.
