The Trump Administration has once again called out India for what it claims are "tariffs" that are ripping off the United States. Speaking to media on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed that India imposes a 100% tax on American agricultural products, making it "virtually impossible" for US to do business in the country.
Leavitt made this statement while accusing India along with the European Union, Japan and China of "unfair trade practices." She stated, "Unfortunately, these countries have been ripping off our nation for far too long, showing their disdain for American workers."
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Tariff On US Goods
Leavitt elaborated on tariffs imposed by different countries, saying that the European Union had a 50% tariff on American dairy products. Japan, shee added, was levying 700% tariff on American rice and India, 100% on American agricultural products. She added that Canada had nearly 300% on American butter and cheese.
Leavitt displayed a chart highlighting tariffs of these countries. These high tariff rates, the White House Press Secretary added, "made it nearly impossible for US products to enter these markets, leading to job losses for Americans."
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US Vows Tariff Reciprocity
Leavitt reiterated that India imposes a 100% tariff on American farm products, calling it an unfair trade practice. She vowed that the US would implement reciprocal measures against such countries.
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Reciprocal Tariffs to Help US Allies: Trump
These comments come on a day when US President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns that reciprocal tariffs might strain relations with allies. He expressed confidence that many countries would lower tariffs once the new measures take effect.
India is Dropping Tariffs: Trump
Speaking on US-India trade, Trump mentioned that he had heard India was considering reducing its tariffs. This statement came on the same day Leavitt again criticized India for high tariffs on American goods.