Donald Trump imposes 26% tariff on India, 34% on China

US President Donald Trump has announced reciprocal tariffs on India, China, the European Union, and the United Kingdom. Speaking at the White House Rose Garden, he declared that America would charge these nations import duties equivalent to half of what they impose on the US. Calling this a "discounted reciprocal tariff", he said the US would impose a 26% duty on Indian imports and a 34% duty on Chinese imports.

President Trump directly aimed at India's trade policies, describing New Delhi's tariffs as "very, very tough". He recalled a recent conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, "He is a great friend of mine, but I told him, ‘You're not treating us right.’ India charges us 52%, so we will charge them half of that—26%."

The tariffs also extend to key US allies, with 20% duties on imports from the European Union and 10% on UK goods. Japan was not spared either, with a 24% tariff imposed on its exports to the US. These tariffs come in addition to a 10% baseline duty that will be applied to all imports into the country.

The announcement was met with loud cheers from supporters as President Trump framed the move as a historic correction of unfair trade practices. He proclaimed, "For far too long, other countries have looted and plundered us, but no longer. April 2nd will forever be known as 'Liberation Day'—when America reclaimed its industries." He insisted that these measures would bring back jobs and boost small businesses across the nation.

Following the speech, the White House issued a statement justifying the decision. Officials described the trade deficit as a "national emergency" requiring immediate action. According to the announcement, the 10% baseline duty on all imports will take effect from April 5, while the higher country-specific tariffs will come into force from April 9.