White House Criticises India’s 150% Tariff on American Alcohol and 100% Duty on Agricultural Goods

The White House has voiced concerns over the steep tariffs imposed on American goods by several nations, particularly India, Canada, and Japan. Addressing the issue in a recent press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticised these high duties and emphasised President Donald Trump’s commitment to fair trade policies.

Leavitt specifically highlighted the impact of Canadian trade policies on American businesses. “The president is again responding to the fact that Canada has been ripping off the United States of America and hardworking Americans for decades. If you look at the rates of tariffs across the board that Canadians have been imposing on the American people and our workers here, it is egregious,” she stated.

India’s Tariffs on American Goods Under Scrutiny

India was singled out for imposing high tariffs on US exports, particularly in the alcohol and agricultural sectors. “You look at India, the 150% tariff on American alcohol. Do you think that’s helping Kentucky bourbon be exported into India? I don’t think so. 100% tariff on agricultural products from India,” Leavitt said.

The White House has maintained that these tariffs pose a significant challenge for American businesses trying to enter the Indian market. President Trump, in a separate statement, claimed that India has agreed to lower its tariffs. “India charges us massive tariffs. Massive. You can’t even sell anything in India. They have agreed, by the way; they want to cut their tariffs way down now because somebody is finally exposing them for what they have done,” he said during a televised address.

Japan’s 700% Tariffs Also Under Fire

Japan was another country called out for its trade barriers, particularly in the rice sector. According to Leavitt, “Look at Japan, tariffing rice, 700%. President Trump believes in reciprocity and it is about…time that we have a president who actually looks out for the interests of American businesses and workers. And all he’s asking for at the end of the day are fair and balanced trade practices.”

Potential Trade Retaliation from the US?

With trade imbalances at the forefront, Trump has hinted at possible tariff hikes on key trading partners, including Canada and Mexico. “The tariffs could go up as time goes by, and they may go up” he reportedly told business leaders, as per Fox News.

This latest development is part of a broader trade policy under Trump, who has previously imposed tariffs on multiple nations, citing economic and border security concerns. Earlier this month, he temporarily delayed some tariffs on Mexico and Canada before a wider implementation set for April 2, following discussions with Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum. However, he continued to criticise Canada’s trade policies, calling it a “high tariff nation.”

Conclusion: The Global Trade Landscape Remains Uncertain

The ongoing disputes highlight the complexities of global trade relations. As the US pushes for a more level playing field, the coming months could see further negotiations—or retaliatory tariffs. Whether these trade tensions escalate or lead to constructive dialogue remains to be seen.

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