India cannot be labeled tariff abuser, Modi's administration will navigate trade tensions: former US official

ANI March 29, 2025 191 views

A former US trade official has defended India against accusations of tariff abuse while expressing confidence in Modi's ability to manage the complex trade relationship. The comments come as the US prepares to implement new tariffs on April 2, though President Trump has expressed optimism about the outcome. Trump recently praised PM Modi as a "very smart man" and "great friend" during a public appearance. Meanwhile, Indian officials anticipate a bilateral trade deal with the US could be finalized by year's end.

"You can't accuse India of being a tariff abuser and expect a strong US-India relationship" - Ray Vickery
Washington, DC, March 29: Ray Vickery, former United States Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Trade Development on Saturday said that India can not be accused as the tariff abuser, adding that Prime Minister Modi and his administration will continue to manage the delicate trade relationship with the US.

Key Points

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Former US official defends India against tariff abuse claims

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Modi administration understands Trump's trade approach well

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US-India trade deal likely by year end

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Trump praises Modi as smart leader and great friend

Talking about the tariff talks between India and US, he said that There won't be anything immediate, although there will be a bluster about how America First is being applied to the economic relations between both the countries.

"It's my hope that the relationship will continue to be strengthened economically. I don't see a separation between strategic matters and trade matters. They're all part of the same reality, and you can't accuse India of being a tariff abuser and at the same time, they expect a strong US-India relationship, particularly in regard to China and other threats to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region," he added.

Former United States Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Trade Development further added that Prime Minister Modi and his administration have diagnosed really the president's predilection so well.

He anticipated that the Indian side will be able to navigate the complexities of this trade relationship to avoid immediate adverse impacts.

As the US is going to implement the tariffs on April 2, on March 29, President Donald Trump said that the 'tariffs are going to work out well between New Delhi and the Washington, DC,' and expected a favorable outcome.

While answering questions during an Interaction with reporters at the swearing-in ceremony of the US attorney for New Jersey, Alina Habba, on Friday (local time), Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referring to him as a "very smart man" and a "great friend."

Trump said, "Prime Minister Modi was here just recently, and we've always been very good friends."

Meanwhile, Arvind Virmani, Member Niti Aayog, on March 28, said that a bilateral trade between India and the US is likely to be signed by the end of the year.

Comments:

James K.

Finally someone speaking sense about India-US trade! The tariff accusations never made much sense given our strategic partnership against China.

Priya M.

Modi ji has handled so many complex relationships - I'm confident he'll navigate this too. The US needs India more than they admit 🤔

Robert T.

While I agree with most points, I think India does need to address some legitimate trade concerns. Balanced approach is key for both sides.

Anjali P.

Trump calling Modi a "great friend" shows how far we've come! Remember when US presidents barely acknowledged India? 🇮🇳🇺🇸

David L.

Trade deals take time but the strategic partnership is too important to jeopardize over tariffs. Both sides will find middle ground.

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