India Opposes US Proposed 12.5% Tariff, Calls for Negotiations
India has formally objected to the US Trade Representative's proposed 12.5% tariff, urging bilateral negotiations to resolve trade issues. During a public hearing, Joint Secretary Brij Mohan Mishra highlighted inconsistencies in the USTR's Section 301 investigation into forced labour. India maintains that it has engaged constructively on this issue and that the USTR's findings lack adequate evidence to justify the tariff. The investigation, initiated on March 11 and 12, 2026, covers 60 economies, with the proposed tariffs affecting 54, including India and China. Industry bodies like Ficci and CII have also called for a reconsideration of the tariff, citing potential negative impacts on both Indian exporters and US consumers. The USTR is expected to review public comments before finalising the tariff decision.
Published 14 hours ago • 11 Jul 2026, 02:29 PM IST