US Lawmakers Propose Ending 50% Tariffs on Indian Imports

Three Democratic representatives in the United States House of Representatives have introduced a resolution aimed at reversing President Donald Trump's imposition of significant tariffs on imports from India. The proposal, unveiled on Friday, seeks to terminate the national emergency that was declared by Trump in August 2025 under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This declaration facilitated the imposition of tariffs that can reach as high as 50%.

The resolution was brought forth by Representatives Deborah Ross of North Carolina, Marc Veasey of Texas, and Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois. The lawmakers contend that the emergency declaration is unjustified and detrimental to both American consumers and the long-term relationship between the United States and India.

Background on the Tariffs Under Trump's directive, tariffs on Indian products began with a 25% levy on August 1, followed shortly by an additional 25% secondary duty, cumulatively reaching 50% on various goods. The White House justified these tariffs by citing India's continued purchase of Russian oil, suggesting that such transactions indirectly support Russia's military actions in Ukraine.

Lawmakers' Concerns The representatives labelled these tariffs as 'illegal' and harmful to the economy. They argue that these measures adversely affect American workers and consumers while straining US-India ties. "North Carolina’s economy is deeply connected to India through trade, investment, and a vibrant Indian American community," said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. She highlighted that Indian investments exceeding $1 billion have created numerous jobs in her state, particularly in sectors like life sciences and technology. Ross warned that imposing these tariffs jeopardises jobs, innovation, and competitiveness.

Congressman Marc Veasey echoed these sentiments, emphasising that India is a vital cultural, economic, and strategic ally of the United States. He remarked, "These illegal tariffs are a tax on everyday North Texans who are already struggling with affordability at every level."

Raja Krishnamoorthi, who is of Indian descent, described the tariff strategy as counterproductive. He noted, "Instead of advancing American interests or security, these duties disrupt supply chains, harm American workers, and drive up costs for consumers." He expressed hope that lifting these tariffs would enhance economic and security cooperation between Washington and New Delhi.

Recent Congressional Actions The resolution comes in the wake of bipartisan support in the US Senate for a measure to end similar emergency-based tariffs on Brazil, indicating a rising opposition within Congress against the President's unilateral authority to modify trade policies through emergency declarations.

This initiative reflects a broader attempt by Democratic lawmakers to reclaim Congress's constitutional authority over trade matters and to restore relations with India, which have been tested in recent years. In October, Ross, Veasey, Krishnamoorthi, along with Congressman Ro Khanna and 19 other legislators, had appealed to Trump to reconsider his tariff policies and mend ties with New Delhi.

If the resolution is successful, it would formally nullify the national emergency declared on August 6, 2025, and eliminate the additional tariffs imposed on Indian imports.