A bipartisan group of 21 U.S. lawmakers has written to President Donald Trump, calling on him to reconsider the steep tariff hikes imposed on Indian goods. They warned that the move risks damaging a critical economic and strategic partnership at a time when Washington needs New Delhi as a reliable ally in the Indo-Pacific.
The lawmakers’ letter, delivered earlier this week, criticises the administration’s recent decision to slap tariffs of up to 50 per cent on a wide range of Indian products. The duties were rolled out in two phases , first in August, with a 25 per cent “reciprocal” tariff aimed at balancing trade, followed by another 25 per cent penalty linked to India’s decision to continue purchasing discounted oil from Russia.
While the Trump White House framed these measures as necessary to protect American economic interests, the signatories argue the tariffs are counterproductive. According to them, the duties will hurt both sides: U.S. businesses and consumers will face higher prices, while Indian exporters and manufacturers will lose critical access to one of their largest markets.
“These punitive measures do little to serve American workers,” the lawmakers wrote. “Instead, they disrupt supply chains, damage consumer confidence, and undermine a decades-long partnership with one of our closest democratic allies.”
Supply Chains and Consumer Costs
Industry groups in both countries have already voiced concern. U.S. importers warn that higher tariffs could raise the costs of essential goods ranging from textiles and leather products to pharmaceuticals and IT hardware. American retailers, they argue, will be forced to pass those costs on to consumers, undercutting household budgets at a time of already high inflationary pressures under the Trump administration.
On the Indian side, manufacturers say the measures could erode competitiveness and stall growth in sectors that rely heavily on U.S. markets. Small and medium-sized businesses, especially those in the textile and handicraft industries, are expected to be the hardest hit.
Strategic Stakes Beyond Trade
The letter also underscores the broader geopolitical risks. India, lawmakers pointed out, is not just a trading partner but a cornerstone of Washington’s Indo-Pacific strategy. Over the past two decades, successive U.S. administrations have cultivated defence cooperation with India, building military exercises, technology sharing, and joint regional security initiatives.
“Weakening ties at this moment,” the lawmakers cautioned, “risks driving New Delhi closer to Beijing or Moscow, a development that would undermine U.S. interests and embolden our rivals.”
This concern echoes sentiments voiced by several foreign policy experts who argue that Washington cannot afford to alienate India. With China asserting dominance in the South China Sea and Russia deepening its footprint in Eurasia, India’s role as a balancing power is seen as indispensable.
A Call for Dialogue and Reset
Rather than punitive measures, the signatories urged the administration to return to the negotiating table. They called for a “reset and repair” of ties, suggesting that bilateral mechanisms, trade talks, and joint working groups could help address U.S. concerns without derailing the overall partnership.
The letter frames the issue not as a confrontation but as an opportunity to reaffirm shared democratic values and long-term strategic interests. “The U.S.– India relationship is one of the most important of this century,” the lawmakers wrote. “It must not be undermined by short-term disputes.”
The Road Ahead
While the Trump White House has not yet issued a formal response, the growing chorus of voices in Congress adds pressure on the administration to review its stance. Analysts believe the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Washington seeks compromise or doubles down on the tariff regime.
For now, both governments remain at a delicate crossroads. A partnership once touted as a natural alliance between the world’s oldest and largest democracies now faces its most significant test in recent years. The question, as one lawmaker put it, is whether Washington chooses confrontation, or cooperation. Read the full letter here.
