50% US Tariff Hits Indian Exports, Commerce Ministry Calls Meeting with Exporters, Focus on ‘Export Promotion Mission’
New Delhi. After the United States imposed up to 50% tariff on Indian products, the Government of India has swung into action. The move is expected to impact exports worth nearly USD 48 billion.
In response, the Commerce Ministry is set to hold a series of crucial meetings this week. The ministry will engage with exporters from key sectors such as chemicals, gems, and jewellery to explore new potential markets for Indian goods.
An official from the ministry stated that work on the “Export Promotion Mission,” announced in the 2025-26 budget, is also being accelerated. In the next 2–3 days, further discussions with industry representatives will be held to outline the next steps.
Sectors Likely to be Affected
The steep US tariffs will significantly hit the following sectors:
- Textiles and garments
- Diamonds and jewellery
- Shrimp (seafood)
- Leather and footwear
- Animal products, chemicals, and machinery
However, pharmaceuticals, energy products (oil & gas), and electronics have been kept out of the tax ambit.
India-US Trade Snapshot
- In 2024-25, total bilateral trade stood at USD 131.8 billion.
- India exported goods worth USD 86.5 billion to the US.
- Imports from the US were valued at USD 45.3 billion.
- The US accounted for nearly 20% of India’s total exports (USD 437.42 billion).
