Former U.S. President sharpens criticism of India’s trade practices amid growing global realignments
Washington: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has slammed the current state of trade relations between the United States and India, calling it a “one-sided disaster” in his latest comments following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Speaking at a political event, Trump accused India of benefiting disproportionately from trade with the U.S., asserting that Washington has been taken advantage of for years. “We’ve been giving away too much for too long. India takes and takes, and what do we get? Nothing fair. It’s a one-sided disaster,” Trump said, signaling that he would impose tough measures if he returns to office.
His remarks come just days after Modi engaged in high-profile diplomatic meetings with Xi and Putin, which were seen as attempts to stabilize regional relations and strengthen economic ties amid global uncertainties. Analysts believe Trump’s comments reflect growing U.S. concerns about India’s deepening engagement with Russia and China, particularly in the backdrop of Western sanctions and trade tensions.
Trump also reiterated his earlier stance on tariffs, suggesting that if elected again, he would significantly raise duties on imports from countries he believes are not offering reciprocal access to U.S. markets. “Fair trade, not free trade, that’s my policy. We will not let others exploit us,” he added.
The Biden administration has so far refrained from responding to Trump’s latest attack, but trade experts warn that such rhetoric could impact future negotiations between Washington and New Delhi. India, which has maintained a balanced stance amid U.S.-Russia tensions, has repeatedly defended its trade policies as fair and necessary for its economic development.
The remarks are likely to reignite debates over tariffs, market access, and India’s reliance on Russian energy, issues that have dominated U.S.-India trade discussions for years. Observers say this could complicate the diplomatic balancing act both countries have maintained as they navigate shifting global alliances.